A haunting electronic pop infectiousness shows throughout Chroma, the new EP from Antwerp-based trio Fortress. Satiating structural swells are apparent throughout, often driving from ghostly intrigue within the verses to an invigorating pop-friendly spirit in the bountiful array of hooks on the EP. The result is a thorough success from the act, which comprises Hanne Torfs (songwriting, vocals, production), Joppe Vanwetswinkel (keys), and Nils Tijtgat (bass).
“Full Moon” opens the EP with a climactic sense of captivation, as stutter-y synth sparseness arrives quickly into snappy rhythms and buzzing nocturnal atmospherics. “It’s time to let go of what’s holding us back,” Torfs’ compelling vocals let out. The “full moon,” bridges sends chills in its dreamy charm, arising thereafter into a spirited pop effervescence; it’s a fantastic production to kick off an EP with a multitude of highlights.
Another EP standout, “Holding On” reminds fondly of The Knife in its simmering bass-synth tones and art-pop appeal. Adrenaline-referencing lyrics pair with the thumping momentum for a stirring sense of yearning, apparent in the dance-friendly chorus’ synth-laden resonance. “Colours” is also a highlight, reminding fondly of Robyn and Goldfrapp in its rise from debonair vocals into a melodic tour-de-force of a chorus. Chroma is a stirring overall success from Fortress.
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“Full Moon” is also featured in the genre-based, best-of Spotify compilation Emerging Indie Pop.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
