Album Review: Sleep Cycles - Hibernation

Although clearly inexpensively produced, this in no way detracts from Sleep Cycles’ charming release. This lo-fi, art-folk offering consists of distant thuds and dainty chime details that subtly carry these tinkering melodies. Max Holder’s interesting compositions evoke warm, vivid imagery, such as smoking inside and sleeping during daylight hours. Placid opener Cafe Waltz sets the scene with its soft marimba tones and Holder’s raw, lament-filled vocals. A few sound glitches, such as squeaky guitars, could be ironed out. But Hibernation is what it is – ghostly but not ominous, contemplative but light-hearted, vulnerably imperfect and personal.