8/10

Since the release of his breakthrough self-titled debut album in 2019, US artist SYML has grown from a cult and humble name into one of the world's most progressive producers. Known for his rich and dynamic soundscapes, he continued to pursue the broadest dimensions of his sound on the follow-up EP 'You Knew It Was Me' near the end of last year. Now after only a six-month break between releases, he returns with another forward-thinking collection in the form of 'DIM', an offering that shows him move even further out of his comfort zone than before.

What has been most notable on this new release is that SYML has chosen to work with an outside producer for the first time in his career. Working alongside Paul Meany clearly had a positive impact on his overall aesthetic, as 'DIM' sees him venture away from the more lo-fi and stripped-back sound to advance on something more textured and layered throughout. Experiencing a second pair of ears on his work as opened his understanding to where he can take his music, and as a result, shows him in a far more confident light, trying new ideas and developing a more adventurous direction throughout.

While the EP still pays plenty of attention to his more traditional roots, 'DIM' always sounds like there is a new surprise waiting around the corner. It consistently feels like he is looking to break out of his formative shell in order to present something new and exciting, an ideal that creates a fresh and enticing listen from start to finish.