I Never Thought I’d See This Day Again

High Places “I Was Born”

Well, I think High Places figured it out. Their first two records were pretty good, but mostly for how they showcased the duo’s promise. Interesting ideas in sketch form, but nothing close to fully realized. This new single is a clear creative leap — new instrumentation in the mix, much more confident vocals, less reliance on drone, more defined structure, bolder dynamics. This is a very focused piece of work, and as it turns out, discipline suits them better than free-floating ambiance. This is not to say they have forsaken atmosphere, though. If anything, that element of their sound is more potent when contrasted with tighter beats and a bolder lead vocal, and the composition conveys a sense of lateral movement rather than a static vibe. More like this, please.

Buy it from Thrill Jockey.