Oliver - Mechanical EP Review

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If you, like me, enjoyed the 2011 cult film 'Drive' for its musical allure, then this EP shouldn't disappoint.

The track 'Mechanical', was the first I had ever heard of Oliver, a two-piece project from Los Angeles. It's 80's inspired beat paints a picture of Ryan Gosling cruising through downtown LA, windows down, breeze whistling through his hair, whilst Carey Mulligan sits to his side, her hand precariously placed upon his lap. Added to the slick artwork of the EP and the snappy track name, this track is overtly suave. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RDRa3VXiQQ The rest of the EP is, admittedly, somewhat more upbeat, with 'MYB' providing the similar upbeat vibe to that of a Daft-Punk record of yesteryear. But this isn't a negative. No no! In fact, if any of you are fortunate enough to see me jogging down the seafront of Portsmouth in my tight shorts and knee-high socks, you can rest assured that this song is most likely fuelling me on my way! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmhXmeSfav8 Undoubtedly my favourite track on the EP is 'Night Is On My Mind'. Once again swinging back to the 'Drive' reference I mentioned earlier, this slow and steady tune emits a vibe of unrivalled coolness...aviators on, leather jacket, this song in the background and you may as well call me Ryan. It's hard for me to picture where this song could be utilised. It seems too dark for a restaurant, a little sinister for a cocktail bar, too edgy for a house-party and undoubtedly too 'alternative' for mainstream radio. Until I work this out, I'll continue bopping about town with this in my ears at full blast! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yR1-B88up8 'Control' is surprisingly enigmatic. I struggle to listen to this one and not have the urge to grab a beer and dance. Whether that's just my student-induced alcoholism or the song is actually that good, I don't know. It seems a shame that I half expect this song to sink into a Skrillex inspired cataclysmic drop, but thankfully this isn't the case. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15dEjPxR_f0 You can get the EP on Beatport now at http://t.co/2ky1XHaN and follow them on Twitter: @WeAreOliver or Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/weareolivermusic Whatever you do, show these guys some support. I promise there will be at least one thing of theirs that will appeal. And you will love it!
Contributor
Contributor

As a freelance journalist, I quite enjoy writing. I suppose that is fairly crucial to it! I'm a huge fan of electronic music, I watch the telly from time to time and hold highly critical views of most films. If any of this tickles your fancy, you can follow me on Twitter @jwebbjordan