Side A (EP) - Bedroom DJ (Pop/LoFi) Let’s start with this—this is the best EP I’ve listened to this year and Bedroom DJ has gained a new fan. The EP has a cohesive sound, a deep emotional resonance that connects with the listener, and even a well thought out design presentation to all the visual elements surrounding it. And that’s because this artist does it all.
The 4-track EP shines with something that a lot of other indie artists struggle with—a cohesive project. The songs are distinct, yet go together in a perfect package. This is not a collection of songs, this is a PROJECT, and that is the sign of a true artist. So let’s get into it.
This is a lofi synth project that for the first half of the EP feels very current, and then later pulls in more noticeable 80s vibes. When listening (on repeat mind you) I kept thinking that these songs belong in films and TV shows. My favorite, My Pills Don’t Work, belongs on Euphoria, while the last two tracks are perfect for Stranger Things. I’m going to go song by song here but I cannot emphasize enough how this is a no-skip, listen in order, top to bottom EP that once concluded will have you waiting for a full LP.
Side A starts with Trouble Maker (Dark Side), premiering a sound that will permeate the entire project—wide kicks, tight verbed snares, lofi synths and a vocal effect akin to the leads in Pumped Up Kicks. I was curious when listening to the first track whether the vocal modulation would continue, and it does, indicating a specific vocal presentation for Bedroom DJ. I had worried I would get sick of it, but because of how well it fits the overall vibe of the EP, I was quickly sold. I don’t know if Bedroom DJ has left the bedroom to perform for live audiences yet, but I could see him doing it in some kind of Daft Punk helmet as part of his stage persona. Anyway, back to the music.
Troublemaker is a great intro, it’s a mid tempo groove that really sets the low-key, melancholy vibe. “I am trouble maker, and there’s trouble in my head.” This sets the listener up for the subject matter we’re about to explore—inner darkness, melancholy and depression.
We then get to a song that I will have on repeat for months, My Pills Don’t Work. It feels deeply personal and revealing, it really hits you right in the chest. It is the best production on an expertly produced EP, where the vocals shine in a lush soundscape with a beautifully sad melodic progression. I’ve been singing this around the house since I first listened. “I want I see you in my dreams, but I see you in my nightmares babe.”
We then start to feel a bit more retro, led by Bullying (I Never Leave You). The vocals are particularly repressed here—another stylistic trait—causing you to listen carefully to catch the lyrics. In doing so, Bedroom DJ pulls you deeper into the song, which feels like it’s happening all around you due to his production choices specifically with the percussion.
The EP concludes with my second favorite track, the anthemic Giselle that features a very Prince “Purple Rain” lead guitar sound—a strong line that is the highlight of the song, complimented by the panning percussion. The chords are lush and beautiful. This is a perfect outro—it screams finale and is the most radio-friendly track.
Wide, lush and beautifully sad, Bedroom DJ will soon have a cult following, and he can count me among them. Listen now wherever you stream music.
