SURMA - “Islet”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 4

Pairs Well With…Bjork, Tune-yards, BABii

Intricate and full of surprises, SURMA’s take on dream pop is constantly interesting, eschewing relaxing soundscapes for slices of electronic-pop production. While psychedelic and light, SURMA experiments around both percussion and melody in a way that subtly adds a sense of intensity on her latest full-length alla. Incorporating ambience in verses and instrumental passages, the Portuguese artist finds beauty in little details, composing her songs with the patience of a post-rock musician. Counter that with big moments in what would traditionally be a chorus, layering melodies and harmonies and creating visceral movement before the waves crash down again. The result is both emotive and heady, taking influence from pop, jazz, and EDM in how she composing the dynamic tracks of alla. While Portuguese music is the anchor, SURMA’s music equally draws in Eastern and Western influences, expertly melding them into a sound that is contemplative, complex, and most importantly, moving. (Kevin McStravick)