Sim Nagai - Equator Hotline

Sim Nagai loves traveling. Whether these are actual travels to beachy coasts and mountain vistas, or imagined through wishlists and dreams, travel is an inspiration for the Belgian producer's musical activities. Sim's latest album, Equator Hotline, is no different, featuring exotica-fueled beatscapes and transportive vibes. Titles like "Post from Hawaii," "Flute Resort," and "Oceanic Whitetips" are clues to where Sim's head is - but Equator Hotline is also a big step forward from previous releases. The tracks showcase an extra depth, and Sim's knack for lush instrumentation is beautifully amplified throughout the album's thirteen selections. Equator Hotline is like a sonic upgrade on your next flight to parts unknown. Cuts like "Gentle Breeze" are Equator Hotline's bread and butter - on that tune, a sweet vibraphone line glides over a chilled rhythm track as magical bell trees and avian nature sounds tip-toe in the stereo field. It's introspective and calming, transmitting the feel of