The Moscow based Mental map return with a new EP. The band write that “all songs were initially written by the two Mental Map members Evan and Lynn as part of their side project Wellomute during the band hiatus in 2021. In 2022 the band returned with the two new members Serge and Kristina and decided to release these songs as Mental Map keeping the energetic summer vibe with a slight melancholy spice added.”

So what’s the result? Well, it’s not as noisy as their last outing. Normally I would be upset about that, but the hauntingly refined opener Under The Weather soon wins me over with its expansive sound, fusing indiepop and dreampop. Just A Pop Song is just that! Catchy and addictive, the song will be soon on repeat after you initially hear it. It’s their finest effort to date. Closing track Little Wing gets a bit indulgent in places, but when the synths and vocals combine, it works well.

Wellomute isn’t a bad EP, especially as it includes Just A Pop Song. If you want something life changing, look elsewhere. But if you want a pleasant sounding addition to your playlists, then it will not go amiss. Wellomute is available digitally from the band.

Facebook