Most EPs serve relatively simple purposes: a brief taste of what an artist can offer or a slight deviation so they can experiment without dwelling on new ideas for too long. Rarely does an extended play feel like a proper introduction to an artist while also showcasing how versatile they can be; yet that’s exactly what Shapes In Calgary pulled off with the release of their second EP. As a follow-up to the band’s 2016 release, Here (streaming below) finds the two-piece fleshing out their sound in colorful new ways. Emphasizing the simplicity of synthesizers and drum machines, Shapes In Calgary’s brand of synth-pop has always valued small moments of quiet beauty, whether it’s a bubbling melody or Alyssa Ciorciari’s vocals echoing into nothingness. The songwriting on Here is a kaleidoscopic expansion of their previous creations, exploring new territory in fresh and inventive ways. The swaggering synth lines of “U Do” sound nothing like the electroacoustic production of “Falling Forward”, yet each song has moments where the band’s clear and naturalistic songs are brought to soaring new heights. This release showcases Shapes In Calgary’s knack for creatively finding their own voice in a multitude of moods and only adds to the excitement for what they can do with a full length album format. Here will be released on July 20 and will be celebrated with a live show at Union Pool on 07.21. – Tucker Pennington
