Today’s EP really filled me with joy, as Robert Ruby and his funky music handled this so well. “Coasting” is a coast-to-coast experience through the world of the eclectic songwriter Crimes of Passion, the alias of the US-based producer. With a lot of experience in the field and a majestic use of the various instruments he knows, the creator delivered a real rollercoaster, starting from more emotional takes to danceable, funky hits.
I personally loved the fil rouge of the EP, which blends indietronica, house, and electropop with a lot of personal touches. It is a work made with heart, written at a home studio over the past few years, and it shows. There is an intimate, warm feel to the production, as if it were made with care and not by a strict formula. It strikes that perfect, delicate balance between complex arrangements and a smooth, accessible sound. Such good fun!
A Track-by-Track Breakdown
Here is my personal take on the 5 tracks:
1. Delirium (80/100)
Balearic Beat on the go, as Robert focused. This is a late-night ballad with a retro sound, where the insistent pulse and 90s house undertone give the song its rhythmic source. That precise groove is both contemporary and thoughtful, drawing directly from the energy that flooded Ibiza clubs. The hook completely hypnotized me, and the lyrics are great and catchy. It honors the past while boldly stepping into the now.
2. Leeann (78/100)
Calmer, more emotional and introverted. “Leeann” shows a positive message, but sounds like a calmer version of “Delirium“, continuing the story of Robert. I particularly enjoyed how the funky pluck lead sits perfectly over the percussions, which lean back nicely in the mix to give the track some room. It creates a beautiful texture that elevates the emotional theme without killing the energy.
3. Coasting (85/100)
This is where “Coasting” really hypnotizes and leaves out the game. It plays like a dreamy, funky, slow ballad with a crazy electro funk edge, and a voice that dances around experimental elements. The vocal has a soft, ethereal quality that makes it feel like just another layer of instrumentation rather than a conventional lead. It is easy to follow, but also very intricate in the details if you focus on the bassline.
4. Sunny Day (82/100)
Excellent riff and exotic percussion, Sunny Day is that summer song that really leaves you with a smile. Still here we have bright, uplifting textures and hypnotic grooves that should feel familiar to fans of LCD Soundsystem or Hot Chip. The track masterfully embodies a carefree energy, making it an absolute groove to wriggle to on a warm afternoon.
5. Too Late (83/100)
Here I really enjoyed the late-night mood, very soft and calm, and the vocals are simply stunning. It opens with airy tropical textures over a pulsating piano arpeggio, creating a story saturated with romantic tension and bittersweet memories. What a passionate tune to wrap up a stellar EP, transforming heartache into pure motion on the dance floor.
