It’s surprising to learn that “Thinking the Same Thoughts” is the debut single from Hungarian electronic dream pop project Modern Artifacts. The sentiment, intention, and execution are markers of a sophistication that normally comes with hard-earned years of trial and error. Do a little digging, however, and you’ll discover that the man behind the project, Imre Kiss, has been active on the Hungarian and wider European scene since at least 2013.
Where his past projects were steeped in a clubby coolness and detached elegance, the Modern Artifacts project has allowed Kiss to develop his more sensitive and brooding side. The debut single lays a foundation of technically rich electronica: steady percussion, soft bass thumps, and icy synth sounds. On this foundation lays an emotive world of softly spoken confessional pop from collaborator Rich File (“I’m thinking the same thoughts over and over and over again”). The result is both absorbing and addictive, and can be listened to on repeat ad infinitum.
The single, released digitally and through a limited-edition run of 12-inch marble vinyl, is given the remix treatment by Dutch electronic production veteran Legowelt. Legowelt’s remix expands on the lower end of the mix while discombobulating the drums and obscuring Kiss’s vocals. It is a hazy and haunting abstraction.
“Thinking the Same Thoughts” is out now and is an exciting introduction to a musical project that brings obvious experience to its fresh perspective.
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