By way of an adopted moniker, seventeen-year-old Tim Bettinson from Brisbane brings us his debut EP; Winter. Atmospheric, haunting, honest and downright beautiful; this release, despite its slight repetitiveness at times, is really something.
Made even more impressive is that it came from someone so young, right out of a bedroom in Queensland. Across six tracks Bettinson soars vocally across pianos, beats in amongst an array of nearly indistinguishable virtual instruments. His vocals are high and have a dry sort of sound that is nearly flat, yet in a good way.
Collapse starts things off; an introspective number full of understated beats before the star track Flaws brings out Bettinson’s vocal talent. This EP is something of a master class in using synthetic instruments to full effect and giving what is essentially binary a real soul and purpose.
Strangely for a six-track release, track number four, (Aftermath) is essentially an interlude. While it starts off quietly, the playful piano and soft vocals make it a worthwhile addition to the extended play.
As mentioned earlier, it can get repetitive and each song bleeds into the next a little, however this slight drawback doesn’t stop this release from being truly wonderful.
Listening manages to be an immersive experience while at the same time being true ambient music. It sounds slightly like London Grammar mixed with Brian Eno, the former of which Bettinson toured with over their new year’s tour. It’s a truly special first release from such a young talent.
BY ALEXANDER CROWDEN
Best Track: Flaws
If You Like These, You’ll Love This: BEACH HOUSE, BRIAN ENO, CHET FAKER
In A Word: Mesmerising
