Beach Sloth

J. R. Alexander – Moments EP 6.8

                J.R. Alexander creates a sweet tender EP. Merging field recordings with electronics and guitar it is quite an airy EP. Everything is bright on ‘Moments’. Folktronica sounds particularly invigorated on this EP. Things are clear. Effects, when used, create a specific precise feeling. Using these varied approaches J.R. Alexander manages to maintain a celebratory atmosphere. Wordless vocals, spry rhythms, and the occasional acoustic instrument make it a breeze of an EP. Such methods results in this carefree attitude prevalent over the entire EP. ‘Moments EP’ refuses to stop being cheery. Pop never sounded so happy. 

                ‘Memories’ begins it with slow guitar plucks as bird twitter about. The introduction is extremely low-key before J.R. includes the percussive elements. Even the elements themselves (glasses dinging, things being moved around) give it a natural feel. Little samples of violins complete the image of a perfectly wholesome track. In fact this opener is the strongest track on the album. ‘When we meet again’ is one of the most electronic-effects laden on the entire album. Despite this it manages to remain light on its feet. ‘I’m Glad’ takes a different approach in its near-psychedelic musings towards the end of the track. By the finale of the self-explanatory ‘Good-Bye’ J.R. manages to calm down the percussive elements considerably. Nearly ambient in tone it is a pleasant end to a pleasant journey. 

                Overall this is happy EP. Melodies on here are warm inviting things. The sounds are crisp. J.R. Alexander knows how to bring out the best in the simplest of sounds.