Nun

Tracer proved that Teengirl Fantasy aren't content to remain in one musical place or mood for too long. The duo continue that trend with their first EP, Nun, which consists of entirely instrumental tracks (another first). The pleasure Logan Takahashi and Nick Weiss get from experimenting within a smaller, lower-pressure format is easy to hear throughout Nun, and the EP often sounds like an inspired blend of Tracer's restraint and 7AM's passion. This is especially true of the striking title track, which brings more energy and movement to Tracer's unabashedly frosty palette in its sparkling and revving synths. Layers of hi- and lo-res sounds add textural interest and tension that the duo also explore on the relatively serene "Platinum," where crunchy 8-bit percussion and luxuriously sweeping synth pads give a sense of depth matched by the track's massive drums. Weiss and Takahashi move further from their house roots on the speedy "Eric," which incorporates touches of footwork and drum'n'bass in its hectic rhythms, while "Nun Beat," a screwed version of the title track, slows things down and turns its bells into ghostly echoes. While these eclectic songs are intentionally less cohesive than either of the duo's albums, Nun's progression from Tracer and 7AM is equally logical and exciting. Described by the band as a transitional release, it'll be interesting to hear where Teengirl Fantasy go next; the safe money is on Weiss and Takahashi continuing to challenge themselves.