moody melodic synth patterns, stripped back electronic percussion and haunting hypnotic vocals. may i present the latest masterpiece from reuben tobias: portraits ep. a finely balanced deep underground pop release that will no doubt hold the attention of such names as troxler and jamie jones. the structure, complex enough to hold interest but simple enough to maintain elegance, takes you on a journey through the mind of reuben tobias as you listen attentively to every word of the self expressive lyrics. the b side lead, marran, shares very much the similar characteristics as portraits. minus the lyrics, marran uses subtly layered electronic synths and the comforting sound of young children playing outside to suck you down into a place of complete concentration. your focus becomes stuck in fascination for the sounds guiding you through the duration of the track right to the last second. a brilliant ep. not one for the clubs but certainly one for the collection.