I know this is a bit late on the scene, but it just wouldn’t be right not to mention Burial’s latest EP, Kindred released this past February off Hyperdub Records.  A master of dubstep and minimal electronica, William Bevan has shown the world yet again that there’s more to bass music other than the quintessential mindless dropping of the bass (i.e. Skrillex).  Reminiscent of sounds from his past albums like Untrue and Street Halo, Burial’s new EP evokes new levels of his signature sparse beats and dark, ambient moods.  You can hear that distinct crackle in his tracks layered over simple, looping vocals and distant melodies.  The short EP is only comprised of three tracks–”Kindred,” “Loner,” and “Ashtray Wasp”–but don’t let the small number fool you.  Each somber, esoteric track delivers the ghostly, eerie atmosphere that so fittingly characterizes his style.  His songs aren’t just the only ghostlike attribute, the artist himself is like a phantom as well, having remained anonymous until 2008.  The elusive DJ never performs, live nor on radio.  Despite his choice to remain underground, his albums have all been released to wide critical acclaim.  He often collaborates with Four Tet and the two released a track about a month ago, called “Nova”, possibly upstaging crowd favorite, “Moth.”  The track aptly brings together the signature sounds of both artists–Four Tet’s melodic pulsing and Burial’s 12-step garage style.  The result is a mesmerizing 6 minute track that takes you to another realm.

Listen for yourself: