As you look deeper, Nate Mars has always been an alchemist in the studio, turning raw ideas into polished gems that fit within his vision. His latest venture, the In Time EP, is a rich exploration of the drum and bass soundscape, melding the raw energy of early bass music with a refined, modern twist. It’s an EP that serves as a reminder of Mars’ deep-seated love for the genre and his continuous evolution as a musician.
Within, In Time, Mars steps away from the predictable path. He brings his own vocals to the forefront, offering a more personal touch that’s both heartfelt and striking. This isn’t just about catchy hooks or danceable rhythms; it’s about storytelling through music, a trait Mars has been honing since he first stepped onto the scene. Tracks like “Starting Over” and “Collect Call From” are perfect examples of how his music has matured, these shine light on the narratives he builds into his music that reflect his own life experiences.
Looking back on Nate Mars’ past achievements, a stand out very much worth highlighting is Out of The City, a collaboration with Dia Luna. Hitting solid marks on the streaming front is worth noting; but it was Mars’ skillful fusion of acid house with a sort of pop intelligence that is the true accomplishment. It showed that Mars had the chameleon-like ability to dabble around genre-wise in the electronic music spectrum, always keeping listeners on their toes.
With the In Time EP, Mars pays homage to the classics, tipping his hat to the stalwarts like Moby and The Prodigy. Yet, he doesn’t rely on the tools that got him there. The TB-303, a signature in much of his previous work, takes a backseat as he chops up classic drum breaks and throws in nostalgic rave stabs and piano riffs. This is more than playing with the past; it’s Nate Mars revisiting his roots, showing us where he’s from and giving a glimpse of where he’s headed.
It’s this blend of familiarity and innovation that makes In Time more than an EP – a chapter in Mars’ ongoing musical story. A chronicle that’s best enjoyed as it was made — with heart.
