Most Improved, the new EP from indie-pop duo, Sleeping Lion is filled to to brim with heartfelt, earnest and bittersweet pop tracks. Easily weaving between R&B production, bright, electronic-tinged pop and vulnerable acoustic tracks, Most Improved accomplishes more in seven songs than most artists do with a full-length. Each track on the EP tackles a different sound, but with Sleeping Lion’s distinct twist, all complete with vulnerable lyrics and stunning vocals, perfectly solidifying Nate Flaks & Noah Longworth McGuire’s place in the pop scene.
Lyrically, Most Improved is a bittersweet journey through love, loss and moving on. It takes listeners through the ups and downs of a deteriorating relationship in stunning songs like “Out Of It” and “Casper”, the frustration of fighting in the angry yet playful “CTFO”, and letting go in the beautifully powerful acoustic ballad “Small Things.” The emotion, desperation and ultimate healing on this EP is palpable, and by the time the heart wrenching “Last Good Day” comes in, you’ll find yourself rooting for Sleeping Lion.
Sonically, Most Improved is an exciting listen, too. While the first three tracks sit nicely together, comprised of keys, horns and stunning synth, standouts on the EP definitely come in the songs that break the mold. The change in tone between the acoustic “Small Things” and the groovy, bass-driven and electric-tinged banger, “Hurt Nobody” really showcases the duo’s songwriting chops. Meanwhile, the epic closer “Winedrunk” drives the entire album home, serving as a bit of a medley of the songs that came before. The vocal layers alone (which include 100+ vocal tracks from 42 people) are absolutely stunning, making for almost a religious experience.
While most EPs are short, sweet snippets of what an artist is capable of, Most Improved is so much more than that. These seven songs are epic, emotional, well written and most importantly, fun to listen to. The EP perfectly proves that Sleeping Lion have staying power in the indie-pop scene.