Continuing the label's legacy, 4AD artist Maria Somerville crafts tunes which reveal just how lasting this imprint's strengths remain. The super dream-pop of her 2025 album Luster was something I raved about here, and I'm happy to now help spread the word about a new remix EP from Maria that is out today.
The Luster (Remixes) EP finds select songs from her album being worked over by some cool names. The Seefeel remix of "Stonefly" adds considerable spaciousness to the already airy tune, while the remix of "Projections" from colle (Chanel Beads) adds layers and layers of sounds under the central melody. Each remix here finds the remixer adding a stamp without losing the ethereal charms of the original composition. These remixes each suggest new paths for Somerville to pursue on what I hope is a long career on 4AD.
The charms of Luster were many for me, and the material reminded me very much of that one Swallow album the label put out in the Nineties. These remixes are more robust and varied, making the hooks more prominent in some ways. I think of this EP as a bookend, but for some it will be a gateway. For those so far unfamiliar with Somerville's art, a remix by a band like Seefeel should get Maria the attention she deserves. Luster (Remixes) works on its own, but it works best as an extension of its parent album for those who loved that one.
Luster (Remixes) by Maria Somerville is out now via 4AD.
[Photo: Cáit Fahey]