High Highs – High Highs EP
aaamusic | On 24, Nov 2011
Very similar to the likes of Twilight soundtrack stars Iron & Wine comes the first instalment in the High Highs discography. Belonging to the label founded by Elton John that brought this industry the incredible likes of Ed Sheeran and Lily Allen amongst many others, the New York three piece present four very simple yet strangely captivating tracks.
Opener and new single ‘Flowers Bloom’ just begins the round of melodic harmonies and soothing synths. It appears as the soundtrack to a relaxing soak in the bath and just continues beautifully through to Open Season, one of the stand out tracks belonging to the EP.
High Highs present an almost completely unique sound, with a heavy layer of haunting vocals curtsey of Jack Millas compliments well with the hypnotic, dream state synths although sometimes almost non-existent drum beats from Zach Lipkins make a slight appearance there’s nothing there to say that he’s actually present for most of it.
Closing track ‘Horses’ is a much rawer track, the chord shifts of the acoustic guitar and effortless vocals give EP a satisfying taste of ghostly simplicity. Making their way across the pond, High Highs are setting high sights for their career, after nailing support slots with the likes of the incredible Jose Gonzales there’s a lot more we haven’t seen from High Highs yet.
Elly Rewcastle