Self-taught musician/instrumentalist Ian Ewing unveils his latest project, In The Sky. The 6-track EP  was crafted in commemoration of his first child and the changes that come with being a father. The title is a reference to the blissful feeling of freedom the sky provides, as well as its grounding effect on time passing. As Ian Ewing uses his beats to explore periodic changes, one lives through experiences. Each experience is bolstered by each track, which offers a diverse and unique soundscape in the Lofi-Jazz/hiphop sphere that evokes different emotions.

The first track and lead single “Crescent Bay” is a mid-tempo soul-stirring beat comprising pulsating bass synths, a prevalent moody pad backed by punchy drums, soothing strings that rise to a crescendo as the track progresses. The fusion of soul aesthetics and hip-hop makes it perfect for a rapper or singer, and I can definitely hear someone like Common over it. The track itself is a dope introduction of sorts and helps set the mood and tone for the rest of the project. The title track, “In the Sky,” starts with a recognizable pop synth with a dreamy and atmospheric texture layered underneath. The drums here are soft, and the bassline throbs in the background, adding a slight oomph to the beat. The track has a bit of modern bedroom pop and evokes reflection when one is alone. Next, we have “Youth,” which is a collaboration with producer Philanthrope, and together the duo bring a heartfelt and solemn vibe to the forefront. From the plucky guitar licks, brooding textures, soft haunting vocals and laidback drum grooves and slow build up, audiences are taken into a world filled with hope and as Ewing puts it, grounded but up in the clouds. That analogy is just perfect in my opinion. Ewing knows just the right bits to collaborate on, and this continues with “Cirrus,” featuring producer/collage artist Howiewonder, and saxophonist Lofi Sax. The track is as experimental as they come and is a showcase of the trio’s diversity as musicians. The detailed lofi vibes is bolstered by the improv jazz stylings and complemented by the offbeat genre-bending elements. From the bright, plucky guitars, soothing pads and soul-stirring pads to the cinematic sound design, the track really draws listeners in and offers a feeling of solace in the midst of the white noise.

The last two tracks, “Starlit” and “Fade” help bring the project to a close and on different high notes, respectively. “Starlit” starts with a gripping bassline, high frequency tone that slowly builds into a somewhat trippy and introspective piece with a touch of warmth. The drums here are punchy and the subtle fusion of haunting vocals gives it an otherworldly feel like one is astral projecting into a new dimension. “Fade” might be a favourite of mine, a it juxtaposes the bittersweet feeling of departure with urgency. The drums are punchy and energetic, and the textures are reflective and solemn, which gives listeners a 2 sided coin type situation. For me, the track might just be a way the artist finds contentment with how life is. Sometimes we don’t actually need to fight against the current but flow with it because sometimes that might just be where our destiny lies.

As far as instrumental projects go, In The Sky EP takes the cake, and the detailed musicianship can be felt on every single track on the project.

Stream In The Sky on all DSPs here.

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