Ins Kino - Ins Kino II

​Ins Kino

Ins Kino II
self-released; 2023

4.1 out of 5 - TOP ALBUM

By Matt Jensen

Evan Farkas aka Ins Kino is back with a new EP entitled Ins Kino 2. This release follows the self-titled EP Ins Kino that was released in 2021. The EP was produced by Zack O’Brien and according to the artist expands on the chamber pop sound. To my ears the music is somewhere between Grizzly Bear, Father John Misty and The Beatles. 

The EP starts with the single “Bauhaus Party” which is a warm ballad that revolves around keys, bass, guitar, sweeping pads and drums. I loved the production right off the bat and it reminded me of Yoko Ono/Plastic Ono Band with an updated contemporary approach. It’s a great song that expands with orchestral strings. I thought the dynamics were broad and surrounding. It’s very dreamlike and nostalgic as well but also quite vibrant. 

“Other Worlds” is a great follow up. The song is catchy and sort of playful in ways. I thought the vocal melodies were memorable and I found myself humming the melodies on the chorus. Kinos knocks it out of the park in regards to the vocals. The organ solo was also on point as was the expanding warm orchestral strings. 

“Box Kite” gets more experimental. It starts with this marching type beat and ominous drone. The organ joins the part and makes for a very psychedelic sound. Keys and guitar emerge and create a canvas for the vocal. There is also a breakdown section with Beach Boys style vocal harmonies. I loved the crossing between experimentation and accessibility on this song. It might be my personal favorite song on the release. 

“A Man For All Seasons” is another fantastic song and the most dynamic yet. It starts with a celebratory beginning which sounds like it could be on Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. The song drops in this ’50s style romance. I loved this. It’s a bit haunting and nostalgic. The song finds its way back to the enthusiastic first section but with vocals. 

​Kino does a great job tipping his hat to certain legends while paving a way for his own signature sound. It’s cohesive and feels fully realized. I would say this is one of the best releases so far this year which will be available in a couple of days. Highly recommended.

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