URL in IRL. Windows 96's standout full length finally comes to vinyl, courtesy of Unfortunateface. Sao Paolo-based producer Gabriel Eduardo (aka Windows 96) delivers vibes galore on 2017's Gradient Horizont, a trip through varied vaporwave micro-genres like "tropical noir," "free sound library synthpop," "loading screen ambient," and "mall soft" (and I'm only half joking). For the uninitiated, this is a solid work of retro-inspired electronica, excellent for chilling, studying, surfing the net, or just soaking in some nostalgia. Check out the relaxing VHS-aesthetique on "Origami" for a taste, then get into the Com Truise-esque "Youthful Waters," the upbeat "Transient Feeling," or the dreamy Pure Moods vibes of "Earthbound." At some points it might feel like you're trapped in an endless Sharper Image commercial, but that's also kinda the point. Comes in full pic sleeve, with bonus track "Season Finale" not found on earlier versions of the album. Recommended for fans of Macintosh Plus, Laserdisc Visions, 100% Electronica, et al.

• limited edition
• music label: Unfortunateface 2018

reviewed by C:PROMPT 06/2018