Coasting, released on May 30, is the latest EP from Robert Ruby, the producer and songwriter behind the Crimes of Passion moniker. Across five tracks, he blends Balearic Beat influences with indietronica, house, and electropop while exploring themes of mental health, personal demons, isolation, and the uncertainty left in the wake of the pandemic.
The opening track, Delirium, immediately sets the tone with infectious energy and a wonderfully inviting melody. The verses and bridge establish the atmosphere beautifully, but it’s the explosive chorus – arriving just after the first minute – that truly steals the show. Ruby has an undeniable gift for writing hooks, and this one burrows into your head almost instantly. The verses serve as the perfect build-up, making every return of the chorus even more satisfying. It’s an incredibly strong way to open the EP.
Leeann shifts the mood slightly, introducing a more pronounced ’80s aesthetic. Its nostalgic, melancholic melody carries echoes of Duran Duran, with lush synth textures and memorable bass lines driving the song forward. The gradual fade-out during the outro is particularly effective, allowing the track to dissolve naturally while preserving its dreamy atmosphere.
The third track, Control, ventures into more experimental territory. The instrumental arrangement, with its wah-infused textures and playful electronic flourishes, gives the song a distinctive character. Yet once again, Ruby’s greatest strength lies in his songwriting. When the chorus arrives around the 1:20 mark, it’s another reminder of just how effortlessly he crafts memorable melodies. Despite dealing with heavy emotional themes, the electropop production keeps the song surprisingly uplifting – you simply can’t help nodding along. The track reaches an almost cinematic climax as the final chorus subtly shifts harmonically, giving the ending an even greater emotional impact.
Sunny Day stands apart from the rest of the EP. Acoustic instruments take centre stage, creating an atmosphere that sits somewhere between The Beach Boys and The Zombies, with a subtle country flavour woven throughout. The choir-like chorus is instantly memorable, while the expressive electric guitar solo adds an unexpected touch that occasionally recalls Prince. Combined with the whistling and infectious acoustic riff, it becomes the EP’s ultimate feel-good moment.
The closing track, Too Late, returns to Ruby’s electropop roots. Its intro even hints at classic Eurodance before evolving into something far more emotionally nuanced. Musically, it’s one of the record’s most immediate and accessible songs, but beneath its catchy exterior lies another deeply introspective lyric. Ruby’s raw, direct vocal delivery creates a fascinating contrast with the bright production, ending the EP on a thoughtful and moving note.
Although Coasting lasts only five songs, it never feels slight. Crimes of Passion consistently balances infectious pop songwriting with genuine emotional depth, proving that introspective music doesn’t have to sacrifice memorable melodies.
This review was made possible by SubmitHub
motel void 
Leave a comment