An effervescent, hooky electronic pop sound meets dreamily inviting vocal work on DREAM, the sophomore EP from Los Angeles-born artist SOZI. Written, solo-produced, and co-mixed by SOZI herself, the four-song release continues her Seasons Project with a glittery exploration of summer highs and hazy illusions.
“Watch out, I’m a superstar,” magnetic vocals repeat on the opening track “Superstar,” infusing a funky bass drive amidst shimmering synths and sporadic strings — making for an infectious sound that bridges the throwback pop dazzle of ABBA with the modern dreamy punch of Magdalena Bay. “Out Of The Blue” unveils a darker mystique to start, infusing buzzing synths as vocals depict “picking up these pieces” following an unexpected betrayal. A climactic swell of spacey electronics and pulsing rhythms culminate in a soaring vocal enthrallment, reminding fondly of Röyksopp in the hook’s cut-up vocal feeling and stylish synth infusions. A haunting pop display of heartbreak, “Out Of The Blue” is another replay-inducer.
“Good Girl” also stands out in its lyrical contrasts between a Hollywood-set glitzy life of glamor and one who conforms to rules. “No I don’t go party, no I don’t get naughty, I’m a good girl,” the vocals begin, ascending into spirited electro-pop vibrancy between the bouncy perspectives of self in the verses — traversing from being a “good girl” to describing the bright lights of Hollywood and craving the circus-like energy. Meanwhile, EP finale “Lost In You” showcases a lush, smitten quality — as the vocals admit “I’m lost in you” alongside mellow piano and serenely glowing backing vocals. With DREAM, SOZI crafts a memorable sound that marks a striking next step in her unfolding pop universe.
