Benoit & Sergio continue to deftly toe the line between vocal house and pop music. They never really let the vocals shine through too much while continuing to let the groove lead the way. The tracks on New Ships might be leaning more towards pop than anyting the duo have released before, but this is still house music. "Lipstick & Lace" leads things off with an incisive bass line and air tight production. It's hooky in all the right ways. As the compressed string sample of "Not In Your Nature" takes hold of you, you'll realize what Benoit & Sergio have their sights set on. The psychedelic murk allows just enough room for the vocals to creep through and the guitar scratches give that needed 80s sheen. The title track draws on a myriad of influences, from sample based filter house to the cosmic vibes of so many Balearic cuts. New Ships is another solid EP from this dynamic duo.

• music label: Visionquest 2013

reviewed by Joey Coco 1/2014