KiWi "Promise" (Zoom Lens)

The latest release from high-profile netlabel Zoom Lens, "Promise" is a collaboration between Tokyo-based Azupubschool and Coris from Osaka — two young producers who are no strangers to the netlabel scene. The two first worked together when Azu remixed "Jikuu no Tobira" from Coris' 2014 debut "Across Time & Space," and now they've begun working together under the name KiWi.

A first release on Zoom Lens for both Azu and Coris, "Promise" represents a departure for the artists and also the label. While the typical Zoom Lens release has its vocals buried deep in the mix as per shoegaze tradition — singers' voices serving as one texture of many — Coris' sugar-sweet vocals are strong and clear throughout. With the production in the background and the singer at the forefront, the conventional pop presentation is a surprise for a release by the label. However, it's a welcome departure; for an imprint as fascinating and progressive as the Los Angeles-by-way-of-Tokyo collective, staying in the same place for too long would do them little justice.

The two producers' complementary styles work to make "Promise" an exhilarating listen, with Azu's EDM sensibilities adding a propulsive thrust to Coris' airy dream pop. Retro synth washes and fantastical lyrics recall '80s city pop, but the decidedly contemporary percussion keeps things moving forward — and towards the dance floor, naturally.

A set of remixes from other Zoom Lens artists provide a host of alternate takes that launch the songs in intriguing new directions, enabled by the wonderfully dense musical backing. The three remixes of the title track reinterpret it as laid-back jazz, trap and trip-hop, building on elements that were already in place and creating something entirely new from them. It's unknown at the moment if this unit will be a one-off collaboration, as these things so often are, but one can only hope we'll be hearing more from KiWi. (Devon Fisher)

"Promise" is available for download via the Zoom Lens website at www.zoomlens.bandcamp.com.