MiXE1- Lights Out EP

Artist: MiXE1 (Hertfordshire, England)

EP Title: Lights Out

Label: Static Distortion Records

Released- July 27^th 2013

Genre: Electronica

In the bands own words:

“MiXE1 (pronounced: Mikes 1) is an electronic project founded by songwriter Mike Evans boasting a wide range of influences from pop through to metal. Passionate vocals, hooky melodies and synth layered backdrops make up the distinctive sound with all songs set in a futuristic city of the same name - neon dreams and haunting emotions. This is MiXE1.

During 2010 the band started as a solo project by songwriter Mike Evans (at the time, guitarist of alt-metal band Broken Butterfly X). Mike began experimenting with electronics and laying down vocals himself resulting in the debut EP 'Module 01' which featured one of the band's most successful tracks - the emotional and trance-inspired 'Breathe'. This led to the signing with UK label, Static Distortion Records, becoming one of the first bands on the roster. Subsequently, the sophomore EP 'Module 02' which was released in summer 2012. The EP told a very personal story, each song representing a chapter relating to some big events in Mike's personal life around that time. 'Module 02' produced the standout song (and video) "This Is Not Goodbye" - once again showcasing passionate vocals, addictive synth hooks and a new aggressive element. In late 2012, the band switched from solo endeavour to full on band. Lee Towson joined on guitar, bringing his unique style and take to the strings. No stranger to MiXE1, Lee had already appeared in the music video for 'This Is Not Goodbye' and also produced the lyric video 'A Spark in the Air' (a song released for free to celebrate signing to SDR). Lee O'Brien (formerly of Indie-Rock band Load) joined the mix on drums - adding a fresh energy, technique and dynamics to the rhythm section. Finally talented musician Marcos Farias joined as the live bassist - rumbling the stage at the live shows. Now, in 2013, the group are set to release their first effort as a band the "Lights Out" EP - featuring re-vamped songs penned in-between the first two EP's but given the full band treatment. And the debut album "Starlit Skin" currently being mixed for a predicted release before the end of the year”

Lights Out

Forceful and noteworthy, blending seamlessly with a soft melodic vocal edge that weaves a groove of haunting energy that turns the track into a full on infectious and catchy array of rich sonic textures.

Part of Me

Stunted synth notes turn wild and uncompromising here with Mike’s voice turning from smooth to malevolent at the click of a finger. This track really has a biting content and holds plenty of vigour with captivating change of vocals making it deliciously gnarly and a really interesting composition.

Pulling you back to my World

Superb synth sounds are intense and catchy with a hint of sinister. Shards of crisp melody flow freely and are seductive and along with Mike, Amie Morandarte-Evans vocal addition really enhances the beauty of the track which is in its own right a compulsive listen.

Find You

A bubbling synth opens up a sonic array of electronica amid the deftly executed vocal accompaniment and is certainly a mesmeric track that captures a real solid essence of caress and a powerful and full bodied composition that offers a ton of imagery.

This Time

A rather grisly opening and a diverse change from the previous track. The ravaging synth is consistent and free flowing with a powerful vocal rampage allowing the listener to immerse themselves in the savagery, although saying that it holds a deep beauty also within its confines and a very cleverly written track.

Part of Me (Defeat Remix)

Defeat have done a superb with this harnessing deep and mesmeric beats and urgent synth. It is a dominant track and one that you can’t stop moving to, which is always a winner.

To Sum up:

A really superb E.P that much is evident by the choppy synth and deep beats that grab you as soon as you press play but nothing of a surprise to me really as MiXE1 has everything wrapped up, with their alluring persuasive sounds that in turn send you on an escapade of synthesised caresses, powerful and compelling vocals and dark rhythms that really hits the aural cortex like a brick to the head.

Impossible not to like this if you are a big fan of electronic music, as it just sweeps you along and is an impressive release from start to finish, and thoroughly inspiring too. This preys on the weak and literally makes them succumb to the dark haunting electro force with powerful promise, devouring the senses and leaves one basking in the bands delights - and what’s more? – MiXE1 delivers this in abundance!

9/10

Take a listen to the EP teaser:

Track List:

Lights out

Part of Me

Pulling you back to my World

Find You

This Time

Part of Me (Defeat Remix)

Members:

Mike Evans – Vocals/Synth

Lee Towson – Guitars

Lee O’Brien – Drums/Percussion