Fleanger is back with “Behind the Smile,” a short but potent two-track E.P. that speaks volumes without saying much at all. Issued through Tiefe Resonanz Records (TR021), the album aims to describe the fine line between being open and always having something up your sleeve. It’s an inward journey that twists and turns with the atmosphere and shifting sound patterns. “Behind the Smile” gets right to its point, emotionally speaking, and it takes only 9 minutes and 36 seconds. Fleanger concentrates on minimalism and melodic development, where space is as important as sound.
The deep house stylings are a little more stripped back on the opening title track, "Behind The Smile," and a simple piano-led groove leads the way. Warm chords open slowly over a gentle groove, evoking an emotional stillness and openness. The song also invites people to sit with their thoughts, with a sense that a hidden truth lies just beneath the surface. "Midnight Between Montmartre & Mitte" adds additional feelings to the EP. The track shifts into a more progressive mode, invoking the late-night spirit of Paris and Berlin. It has a variety of melodic ideas and a steady pulse that feels like one at last.
This album is Fleanger’s signature sound, fully realized, deep, melodic, and that hits you in the feels. He prioritizes storytelling and mood over technical flash, giving the music space to breathe and reach people. “Behind the Smile” gets attention with its vibe, patience, and brutal honesty about your state.
The EP’s flow is seamless and works wonders in deep house, melodic house, progressive, sunset, and late-night playlists. And it reminds us that sometimes the quiet parts of electronic music, where emotion takes over, and sounds can reference each other in ways that surpass the contributions of songwriters or singers, can be the most formidable. “Behind the Smile” from Fleanger is an evocative EP that lingers long after the last note fades. It lets listeners hear the feelings roiling just beneath the surface.
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