RedazioneLife On Thin Ice’s debut EP, As Days Went By, is a testament to the power of electronic music to transcend its stylistic roots and create something truly unique. The four-track EP, the brainchild of Cyprus-based musician Kirill Yurchev, is a rich exploration of electronic sounds, blending elements of IDM, trip-hop, and funk in a way that feels both familiar and fresh.
From the first note of “Greenfied (On Fire),” the listener is drawn into a sonic world that is at once introspective and expansive. The track’s slow, almost meditative rhythm is reminiscent of Boards of Canada, with its lush, ambient textures and intricate beatwork. The rhythm here is a key component, creating a foundation that supports the track’s evolving atmosphere. The beats are crisp and precise, yet they flow organically, allowing the listener to lose themselves in the music’s hypnotic pulse. It’s a track that exemplifies Yurchev’s mastery of the AKAI MPC One, an instrument that plays a crucial role in the creation of this EP.
The second track, “Brainstoppers,” is where the EP truly hits its stride. This is the most upbeat and dancefloor-ready track on the album, and it’s easy to see why it was chosen for a psy-op video. The bassline here is a standout—thick, groovy, and infectious. It drives the track forward with an irresistible energy, while the guitar sample, played by Yurchev himself, adds a softer, more human touch to the mechanical precision of the electronic beats. The combination of these elements creates a dynamic contrast that makes “Brainstoppers” a compelling listen, whether you’re on the dancefloor or just vibing out at home.
“As Days Went By” continues with “Staircase to Nowhere,” a track that blends a haunting melody with a complex rhythmic structure. The bassline here is subtle but effective, providing a steady undercurrent that anchors the track’s more experimental elements. The rhythm is intricate, with beats that seem to cascade and overlap, creating a sense of movement that is both disorienting and mesmerizing. It’s a track that showcases Yurchev’s ability to push the boundaries of electronic music, blending genres and styles to create something truly original.
The EP closes with “No More Sleep,” a track that is both haunting and beautiful. The rhythm here is slower, more deliberate, giving the track a dreamlike quality. The bassline is deep and resonant, adding a sense of depth and gravitas to the track’s ethereal melodies. It’s a fitting end to an EP that is as much about exploring the depths of emotion as it is about pushing the boundaries of electronic music.
Overall, As Days Went By is a high-quality release that we’re proud to feature on our webzine. Yurchev’s ability to blend different genres and styles, combined with his mastery of rhythm and bassline, makes this EP a must-listen for fans of electronic music. We can’t wait to see where Life On Thin Ice goes next.
