Mysterious music producer Burial unveils a fresh 23-minute EP titled Comafields and Imaginary Festival.
Burial, the enigmatic electronic musician known for his distinctive sound design, has returned with a new two-track EP titled "Comafields" and "Imaginary Festival". The release, which is available on Bandcamp and streaming services, marks another addition to the artist's discography, continuing his low-key approach and preference for secrecy.
Burial, whose real name is William Bevan, first emerged in the mid-'00s with a string of EPs and albums. His breakout success came with the 2007 album "Untrue", which scored a nomination for that year's Mercury Music Prize. Interestingly, "Untrue" was pieced together using an ancient version of Sony's Sound Forge running on a "rubbish, dying computer" that intermittently leaked smoke. This setup allowed Burial to craft his signature style by working with cut-and-paste techniques, heavily manipulating samples of garage, dubstep, and ambient music.
Despite the advancements in technology since then, Burial continues to release music via his longtime label Hyperdub, using a similar approach. The tracks on the new EP stretch over the 10-minute mark, featuring fragile garage-influenced beats and faded trance synths. There are hints of new influences in the tracks, including layered synth drones that feel almost post-rock.
In the past year, Burial has supplied the soundtrack to Harmony Korine's AI-powered film "Baby Invasion", but the soundtrack has not received a standalone release. The vinyl release of the new EP will follow on 19 September.
Burial, in a rare interview, expressed a preference for using the obsolete software, Sound Forge, due to his lack of formal music training and fear of studios. His minimalistic approach to production details and his elusive nature have only added to the allure of his music.
Prior to this release, Burial's last full EP was 2024's "Dreamfear/Boy Sent From Above". With his latest offering, Burial continues to push the boundaries of electronic music, maintaining his unique sound while subtly incorporating new influences.
[1] Information sourced from various interviews and articles about Burial's production methods.
Burial, with his lack of formal music training and elusive nature, has maintained his preference for using the obsolete software, Sound Forge, to craft his distinctive electronic sound. The new EP, "Comafields" and "Imaginary Festival", showcases his unique fusion of garage, dubstep, ambient, and hints of post-rock influences, further pushing the boundaries of the electronic genre.
