8/10

Over these last few months, UK duo Highlands have been busy carving out their own space in the new music scene. While both members live in different parts of the country, their music sees them come together in a warm and emotive embrace as they look to bridge their geographical gap with rich and tender compositions, all written in solitude before coming together for the final parts. And with the buzz around them only just beginning to grow, they now look to introduce themselves to the fold with their wondrous debut EP 'Playing Pretend', a collection that cements them as one of the more exciting names emerging this year.

Blending together a riveting approach to indie-folk with a subtle pop sensibility, 'Playing Pretend' introduces them as this bright and innovative pair at every turn. Despite its short runtime of just three tracks, this new outing manages to pack plenty of punch into its direction. Opening up with the euphoric 'Driving Home Now' before switching things up for 'Catch My Death', Highlands look to capture a wonderfully explorative feel at every opportunity, giving them this unpredictable sound that is near impossible to take your ears off.

It may still be very early days for them right now, but 'Playing Pretend' showcases a strong and commanding approach to their songwriting from beginning to end. Brimming with this bright and absorbing texture, they are certainly ones we will be keeping a firm eye on for the months ahead as well.