Having set up his own music studio after working on various production projects, London based producer Boxed in (Oli Bayston) has found the time to write and record an album of his own. Given Bayston’s previous experiences in the music world; it is no surprise that his debut album Boxed In is a pick n’ mix of monotone electrosynths powered by quirky pop hits. The opening track ‘Mystery’ springs us with resurgent pop juxtaposed with classical undertones. The way the chorus bursts out of the verse is almost uplifting but there is still enough lo-fi to keep the music grounded.
Following on from this, ‘All Your Love Is Gone’ includes a discordant bass line which drives the track through into a dream like frenzy which sounds like a concoction of Joy Division and Mr Scruff. This is then carried on into the track ‘No Joke’ where Bayston throws down a standard dance floor beat and then lays his trademark dead-pan vocals over the top. The freneticism is then carried through where the track ‘False Alarm’ explodes into a speaker toppling bass line combined with simple piano and again emotionless vocals. The track is overrun with head banging lows and catchy hooks which force the listener to feel the uncontrollable urge to dance like there is no tomorrow.
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However, my aim here is not to make the implication that all Bayston is able to do is throw together some bass heavy beats with mediocre lyrics and emotionless drops. ‘Foot Of The Hill’ shows off Bayston’s lyrical dexterity as it pessimistically reminisces over a failed relationship with a past lover supported by a spout of confused grimy garage rock. As the album draws to a close, Bayston gifts us with the diamond of all pop tunes ‘Lo Life.’ The use of call and response between the male and female voice sardonically explains a sad and holey relationship which was destined to fail whilst gliding along over the top of a genuine pop beat that closely resembles palm trees and margaritas on the beach.
I think what makes this album so special is its individuality. Being a producer, Bayston is able to understand what makes a great piece of music. He has taken an almost scientific approach in making the album which, although risky, has paid off. Somehow Bayston has managed to combine the dead-pan tone of Jack Dee, Broski Beat pop hits and grimey club four on four beats to create something that is almost unique. It is indeed very difficult to put my finger on this album, but clearly it has managed to hit all the right spots to make me desperate to listen to the album again and again. My prediction? The album is destined to be a classic.
Words by Matt King
@matt_ajk