Vision Tunnels is an appropriate name for the Athens, Ohio band’s release. Trying to describe Brothertiger’s sound is like trying to reconstruct a dream out of obstructed snippets. The five-track EP eschews musical clarity for an ethereal environment; vocals are echoes reaching the listener from a distant reverie, and the retro-sounding synthesizers come in slow and melancholic. With lyrics like “you’re so alone tonight” (“Summerhouse”) and track titles like “Feel” and “Lovers,” Brothertiger create a sense of dual isolation and intimacy—like a lonely man sinking into a romantic nostalgia. The result is a highly endearing album; it’s relaxing but with danceable pop beats. The super-duper ‘80s homages, “You’re Afraid” and “Lovers,” might remind you of Miami Vice, and especially with the latter, of Chromeo-esque quirkiness. I’ll be the first to admit Chromeo originally wore out their welcome, but the sound has now rested long enough for a mini-revival, and Brothertiger pull it off with an even hand.

For fans of Mew, Miike Snow, and other makers of hazy European pop rock, Vision Tunnels is pure ear candy—soft, catchy, bittersweet, and overall beautiful. For those seeking a more solid sound, a heavy bass beat takes the front seat in “Feel,” but the smoky, half-awake vocals remain. Clocking in at a little over 20 minutes, the Vision Tunnels EP is a perfectly executed aperitif to what will hopefully be an even more tantalizing full release.

Track List:
1. Summer House
2. You’re Afraid
3. Vision Tunnels
4. Feel
5. Lovers