EP 1 cover

EP 1

Crosses · 2011

18 min · 5 tracks · dream pop

Ethereal soundscapes blend haunting vocals with pulsating electronics, creating a meditative yet immersive listening experience.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    †his Is a †rick — This opening track encapsulates the project's ethereal aesthetic with its layered vocals and intricate production, setting the tone for the entire EP.
  • →
    Op†ion — With its rhythmic pulse and introspective lyrics, this track highlights Moreno's unique vocal style while exploring themes of choice and uncertainty.
  • →
    Bermuda Locke† — The atmospheric instrumentation paired with evocative lyrics creates a sense of longing, making it one of the most memorable tracks on the EP.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The EP blends ethereal soundscapes with haunting vocals effectively, establishing a cohesive and immersive atmosphere.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a slow build of layered synths that gradually introduce the vocals, creating an atmospheric entry.
  • Each song features a consistent use of reverb and echo effects on the vocals, enhancing the ethereal quality throughout the EP.
  • The final track is an instrumental piece that fades out slowly, leaving a lingering sense of space and reflection.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • meditative exploration of themes
  • ethereal soundscapes for reflection
  • pulsating electronics with haunting vocals
  • short sessions of immersive listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2011, EP 1 marked Crosses' debut project, showcasing the side project of Deftones frontman Chino Moreno alongside musician Shaun Lopez. This release came after the band's initial formation in 2010, allowing Moreno to explore a different sonic landscape outside of his primary band.
Stylistic neighbors
Chvrches· M83· Purity Ring

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 †his Is a †rick 3:07
  • 2 Op†ion 4:25
  • 3 Bermuda Locke† 3:42
  • 4 †hholyghs† 4:26
  • 5 † 2:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata