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Experimental/Soundtrack: 7328 - 2016 (2016)

66 / 100
2016 solidifies 7328’s identity as an experimental, lo-fi soundtrack project that leans into discomfort as part of its charm.
7328 continued working toward the end of 2016 with an EP titled 2016, using the same recording equipment: an MP3 Sony Walkman NWZ B162F.

For me, 2016 feels like a continuation of the soundtrack style introduced in his most earlier release—something like a sleep aid that is slightly disturbing, or in other words, a nightmare-like ambience. It is pleasant and unpleasant at the same time, because the clipping noise becomes an essential part of 7328’s aesthetic. This reminds me of my own attempts at making piano music using the Walk Band app, and yes, the output was quite similar. Unfortunately, most of those tracks are now lost, and the remaining ones still feel like they need polishing—although it seems almost impossible for them to turn into something significantly better.

The most prominent piano performances on this EP are found in tracks “0” and “2”, with “1” acting as a murky interlude. Because of that, I would choose “2” as the standout track here—and impressively, it has managed to survive in my favorite playlist. It is probably just a matter of time.

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