Greg Hatem’s album “Sure Circuit” is a deeply personal and introspective exploration of identity and intuition. The album features twelve instrumental tracks that showcase Hatem’s range as a composer, blending genres like indie pop, downtempo/breakbeat, and psych/kraut seamlessly.
Recorded during a residency in South Carolina, Hatem found inspiration in the vast, empty studio space and the reverberations of sound that echoed throughout the room. This setting allowed Hatem to tap into his instincts and explore his hard-wired queer identity, resulting in a record that is both raw and vulnerable.
Throughout the album, the tracks are interconnected by a melodic thread that reflects Hatem’s intuitive approach to composition. Each track is a snapshot of a moment in time, capturing the emotions and thoughts that were present during the recording process.
From the opening pitter patter and scattered yet cohesive arrangement of “Sure I’m Sure”, Hatemm’s penchant for experimental and imaginative instrumental work becomes resoundingly clear. You then move into something more dreary, more ominous, and more pained on “Walls Close In”, perfectly echoing the sentiment and emotional feeling of what one goes through as they feel things caving in on them from all sides. Songs like “Gay & Afraid” are deeply personal expressions, told through this hazy ambient and experimental electronic garb on the challenges and internal struggles of being who you truly are.
Overall, “Sure Circuit” is a powerful and thought-provoking work that showcases Hatem’s talents as a composer and his willingness to explore the depths of his creativity. It’s remarkably full, from each single arrangement to the minutia in the details within each track. There’s an emotional distinction, a creative expression, and a wholly impressive imagination to each soundscape that leaves you entirely engrossed.