SINGLE :::: Esser - Work It Out

This is the latest single from Ex Ladyfuzz drummer Ben Esser, released just as he heads off on tour supporting the Kaiser Chiefs on a UK arena tour. Esser last year signed to Transgressive, a label which has a reputation for being on the cutting edge of new musical talent, so expectations are high already.

‘Work it out’ has Esser showcasing his trademark electro pop with all the key ingredients; electronic blips and bleeps, synthesised backing vocals and several accompanying remixes. It’s these that could see the song easily transcend into indie discos, but the single itself has a very easy going laid back feel making it a relatively relaxed listen.

Stylistic elements alluding to artists like The Streets, Jack Penate, or Jamie T can easily be found. Esser has a habit of invoking quirky lyrics like ‘I have a habit of getting my foot stuck in my mouth / you are the only person I know who can get it out’ which make the song feel a lighthearted affair. This does however leave the song feeling a little shallow, but although there’s little too ingenious or ground breaking here, it still remains a very likeable song on the whole.

There is a lot of potential for Esser, especially given the current love for electro/indie/pop at the moment. ‘Work it out’ may not propel him into the glaring eye of the mainstream, but there is plenty of promise for the future demonstrated here.

3/5