S. Carey - Hoyas EP

There’s something suspicious about side projects. Accusations of unrest instantly attach themselves to the act in question with rumors of a dreaded farewell tour looming large. But do the same rules apply to Bon Iver, a band born from a cabin in the woods of Wisconsin? They survived their frontman’s rendezvous with Kanye but, traditionally more reserved drummer, S. Carey’s latest offering Hoyas could hold more answers.

Opener ‘Two Angles’ instantly calms the nerves of Bon Iver fans, swooning them to a serene landscape where theories are dispelled. Here the artist thrives rather than strives, a drummer sings and an 808 doesn’t overwhelm the whole affair. The track also enforces the how-did-we-get-a-Grammy? ethos of his band mates, while humbly showcasing enough percussive prowess to distance Carey from the Justin Vernon and Co. Carey seems to operate in his own space, not being blemished by any musical developments around him, in the best possible way.

This separation grows as electronic elements of ‘Avalanche’ enter uncharted territory for Eau Claire’s finest. Carey’s development as a solo artist is highlighted by strengthened vocals and a newfound ability to craft beautifully balanced tracks. A contrast between a ‘No Cars Go’-esque backing and the vulnerability of the various vocal layers builds a unique portrait with an unmissable lack of self indulgence.

That said, as ‘Inspir’ effortlessly evolves from the previous track, the production of Vernon and Bon Iver’s Brain Joseph begin to emerge. At this stage it would have been encouraging for a burst of energy take Hoyas away from that trademark of building an atmosphere that makes the listener look up at the stars and ponder their insignificance. It’s an impressive habit to get into but as the sporadic vocoder repeats we found love on treetops you can’t help but think there’s another direction it could be taken. ‘Marfa’ attempts this to a certain extent. The reintroduction of warm, electronic pulses weave throughout the track as a reminder of Carey’s awareness of giving each instrument its own space and time, which makes it easy to forget he is predominantly a drummer.

As individual layers delicately fade away you’re left wanting to hear of fall out so Carey can release another full length album. However, an overriding sense of calm and of not quite understanding all the lyrics demonstrates that Bon Iver work too well together for this to happen any time soon. Even if there was a feud, there’s no doubt Hoyas alone could diffuse the most pretentious of artistic differences. Take 'Skinny Love' off repeat, you’ll have to wait a while for a souvenir t-shirt.