7/10

Ever since the release of his breakthrough debut album 'Nonfiction' in 2013, producer James Hinton aka The Range has always been one to search for inspiration in the unlikeliest of places. While many others in his field were looking to latch onto the next hot trend before it fizzled out, he would approach his music with an extreme longevity, creating these timeless pieces that sprawled through to his 2016 LP 'Potential'. But after six years without much of a presence, he has now returned with his long-awaited third full-length 'Mercury', a record that sees him rebuild his distinctive direction.

While The Range has always established himself as more of an alternative name on the electronic music scene, he has still maintained a fresh and adventurous spirit within his work, creating a distinctive and eclectic feel throughout. This is exactly the vibe and atmosphere he brings to 'Mercury', a release that looks to pack as many different ideals and aesthetics into it as possible. From his vibrant techno-R&B spirit on 'Bicameral', the UK rap driven 'Urethane', and the soulful grooves on 'Ricercar', he is returning with one of his more experimental offerings of his career to date.

And while the idea of packing so many different genres into one collection may sound cluttered, 'Mercury' has this brilliantly conceived aura to it, allowing each track to have its own moment under The Range banner. It may have been a long time coming, but his newest release was certainly worth the wait.