Delivering a replay-inducing alt-pop allure, World as Myth is the consuming debut EP from RIMENY, the project of Zak Engel. In addition to previously featured standout tracks like “Matt” and “Sweet Tea,” the EP features several newly released tracks: “I Can’t Talk to My Friends,” “Not Yet,” and “Second Time Through.”
The magnetic and danceable “I Can’t Talk to My Friends” is especially exemplary of RIMENY’s knack for colorfully melodic synth work and hooky vocal swells. “Do I still benefit from your doubt?” the punchy vocals ask, gearing up into a delectable title-touting central allure with shimmering guitar swipes, twinkling keys, and cheer-y vocal additions. The track is representative of RIMENY overcoming a lack of confidence — and playing as “a reflection of getting over that lack of confidence and my growth into deeply appreciating electronic/dance music.” He continues: “Lyrically, the song is raw and direct, reflecting personal struggles with communication and lost patience in friendships. Rhythmic and candid, I Can’t Talk to My Friends is a joyous look at working on yourself.”
Another standout, “Not Yet” shifts from the daytime-set vibrancy of “I Can’t Talk to My Friends” and into a more nocturnal introspection. “I’m feeling really clear tonight,” the vocals shine as playful synths pulse with bouncy infectiousness — reminding of The Postal Service in its balancing of late-night serenity and hook-ready immediacy. RIMENY describes the track as an “existential, midnight anthem for anyone walking home in the city.”
Closing the EP, “Second Time Through” balances a throwback savvy — invoking an ’80s nostalgia in its initial brass slither — with an amiable pop modernity; the result resembles the production of The 1975, though with a peppy step all its own. “You wanna use hand tools,” the vocals begin during an especially memorable segment, where the twanging guitars, stylish brass, and contagious rhythms propel with a sophisti-pop charm. With its blend of effervescence and sincerity, World as Myth establishes RIMENY as an artist strongly worth following.
Stream in the EP in full:
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These three tracks and others featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
