Benton crafts a modern nostalgic triumph with EP, "Animals"
With his latest EP Animals, Benton arrives at that sweet spot where reflection meets rhythm, like a place where self-discovery sounds as fun as it feels complicated. The four-track project, released via SONO Music Group and streaming exclusively on Bandcamp, is a lush, new wave–infused indie pop rock odyssey through the chaos of growing up, falling in and out of love, and laughing at your own emotional disarray along the way. It’s a soundtrack for overthinkers and dreamers alike and one that we can’t help but overwhelmingly recommend!
From the first shimmering chord on the title track “Animals”, the EP feels like an open diary wrapped in synths and electric guitars. Benton’s voice carries a silky smooth confidence, equally capable of intimate vulnerability and playful detachment. His tone has that unteachable warmth and it glides effortlessly through polished production that sounds both vintage and fresh. The EP nods to the sonic textures of The War on Drugs and Talking Heads, but Benton never leans on imitation. Instead, he channels those broad influences into something distinctly his own. The entirety of the record is fully a smart, groovy meditation on what it means to grow and stumble through life in real time, all while being intoxicatingly danceable.
Benton treats introspection with a wink and a grin, reminding listeners that self-awareness doesn’t have to be heavy-handed. His lyrics (& delivery) intertwine between sincerity and sarcasm, unafraid to admit that sometimes the best way to process heartbreak or confusion is to dance it out. The instrumentation mirrors that ethos perfectly with layers of gleaming synths, sharp electronic drum patterns, and guitars that snarl in equal measure. It’s sleek and nostalgic without being derivative of the past in the slightest.
Each track on Animals holds its own identity, yet together they form a cohesive sonic journey that feels deliberate and alive. You can sense the care in every transition and tone. The production, in particular, is outstanding with just enough space for Benton’s voice to breathe and bloom. There’s a cinematic quality to his sound, which makes sense given his work as a TV and film set designer. The lead single appears to be “On My Own”, but you’re a fool if you don’t listen on for “Storm” and “Wake (You’re Eyes Are An Ocean Tide)”.
In an era where many artists chase nostalgia for its own sake, Benton uses it as a tool for storytelling, crafting a sound that’s timeless, tender, and full of life. Through only four songs, it’s short and left us wanting more, but it’s fully complete and the vision has succeeded. Go ahead and click those links below to listen in, follow along, and of course to stay tuned for the latest.
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