This slow burner from 19-year-old producer John Howes—who has gracedXLR8R‘s pages before—shows a level of sophistication to detail that belies his age. “Leazes,” which comes from a forthcoming 12″ due on July 22 via Melodic, starts with a molasses-like synth that creaks over a tentative kick pattern. Distant, clicky rimshots and low-bit hi-hats make an entrance before the whole thing erupts into an energetic house beat, as if the groove was struggling to get out from under its own weight. The song displays an impressive amount of restraint and arrangement prowess, a sure sign that more quality sounds are likely to come from the young Howes.

Leazes