“Outliers” is radical in so many ways. An album born from contrasts, from contradictions, and from oppositions, Sylvan Weekends defy convention at every turn of the road. Far from jarring though, the end product is delectably melodic and sweet as candy throughout. There isn’t a track that doesn’t feel like a earworm with their unique blend of electronic elements alongside a core ethos of folk song writing and an overarching pop sensibility.
The EP takes you on a journey through the complexities of the human experience. The London-based group draws inspiration from the urban and the wild, crafting a sound that defies categorization. Each track is an exercise in contrasts, excavating themes of connection, balance, and individuality.
The EP kicks off with “Everyday”, a song that celebrates the nuances of getting to know someone intimately. From there, “Symmetry” delves into the challenges of maintaining balance in life, while “Young & Freewheeling” celebrates the joy of youth and possibility. The title track “Outliers” samples Amelia Earhart to ask us to embrace our true selves and forge our own path. Finally, “185” serves as the grand finale, exploring the exhilaration and chaos of life and the importance of balance.
Throughout “Outliers”, Sylvan Weekends employs a luscious and diverse range of production techniques to create this distinctive sound that becomes and grows into itself as the album finishes. The EP features everything from vintage tape recorders to modern vocal processors, resulting in a lush, layered sound that gets you instantly addicted to its soundscape. A mesmerising and imaginative experience well worth your time.