Linying’s House Mouse EP is a captivating 4-song set of pop out now via Nettwerk Music Group that seamlessly blends indie pop and dream pop with nuanced melodies.
The tracks exude a playful, yet sophisticated energy showcasing Linying’s skillful production.
From the kaleidoscope of soft dream-pop of the beautiful, glassy opener, “Creature,” to the indie-pop vibe of “Porcupine,” each track has their own individual vibe and paints a vivid sonic landscape.
Mainly co-produced with Jon Graber, a producer known for his work with punk bands such as NOPX and MxPx, his work with Linying was completed in a Los Angeles studio that Linying described as “a haunted mansion full of every instrument you could ever imagine.”
“Creature” immediately seized my attention and reminded me of artists like Rina Sawayama and Griff who hold that commanding voice while also having a very feminine-sounding voice with a butter-like tone.
During the recording process, the duo experimented with instruments such as EBow, tack piano, and erhu, and also worked with musicians like Jordan Blackmon (the former live guitarist for Toro Y Moi).
“For a long time I was so worried about being perceived that I’d overthink and obsess over every detail in a way that was killing my joy,” says Linying. “I don’t know if it’s the Singaporean capitalist in me that made that my approach, but this EP was the first time I realized how rewarding it can be to let go and just make music with your friends. When you start sullying it with fear and pride, it’s such a disservice to the privilege we’ve been given of making music.”
The first track written for the EP, “Happiness,” is a track of pure bliss with quick rhythms as she channels post-breakup freedom.
“In the past, endings had always left me with a mournful feeling, but this time it was more complex—there was liberation but there was also fear; there was the delight of desiring and being desired, and then there was the peace of knowing it was all going to be okay,” says Linying. “I wanted to translate that feeling of bliss, and it all came together so instinctively.”
House Mouse is such a full, captivating EP, and a truly fulfilling sonic journey of post-breakup anthems and more; Linying is an artist to watch in 2024.
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