With 4mat of a Girl, Pax Maisín introduces a debut EP that positions her as a distinctive new voice within contemporary electronic music. Released on June 13, the project unfolds as a carefully constructed blend of electronic music, drum’n’bass, and trip-hop, shaped by immersive sound design and a strong sense of narrative. Entirely self-produced, from recording to mastering, the EP reflects a meticulous approach that balances technical precision with emotional depth.
Originating from Aotearoa New Zealand, Pax Maisín’s work operates as a playful yet pointed counterweight to the country’s traditionally bass-heavy electronic landscape. Her sound leans into contrast: hard rhythms against soft melodic passages, pop sensibilities interwoven with experimental textures, and moments of absurdity that coexist with introspection. This dynamic tension becomes a defining feature of 4mat of a Girl, allowing the EP to move fluidly between dancefloor-ready energy and more reflective, atmospheric spaces.
Rhythm plays a central role throughout the release. Influences from drum’n’bass emerge in tight, agile breakbeats and syncopated percussion patterns that give the tracks forward momentum without overwhelming their emotional core. These rhythmic structures are often offset by half-time grooves or trip-hop-inspired pacing, creating a push-and-pull effect that keeps the listener engaged. The beats feel deliberate and sculpted rather than purely functional, serving as an integral part of the EP’s storytelling rather than a backdrop.
Synth work across 4mat of a Girl is equally expressive. Maisín employs a palette that ranges from gritty, distorted bass tones to airy pads and shimmering leads. The sound design frequently evolves within a track, with synth lines morphing in texture and intensity as the compositions progress. This sense of movement mirrors the thematic exploration of inner states, from playful confrontation with the “monkey mind” to darker reflections on female experience and spirituality. The result is a sonic environment that feels alive and constantly shifting, encouraging repeated listens.
Atmosphere is where the EP truly distinguishes itself. Each track contributes to a cohesive yet varied mood, drawing listeners into a world that is strange, evocative, and subtly theatrical. There is a tongue-in-cheek quality present in rhythmic accents and melodic turns, but it never undercuts the emotional seriousness of the material. Instead, it adds dimension, reinforcing the idea of contrast that runs throughout the project. The balance between intimacy and experimentation allows the EP to resonate both on headphones and in a club context.
Vocals, informed by Maisín’s classical training, are used with restraint and intention. Rather than dominating the mix, they are woven into the production as another textural element, sometimes foregrounded, sometimes fragmented or processed. This approach enhances the sense of immersion and reinforces the EP’s focus on mood and feeling over linear storytelling.
4mat of a Girl also stands as a statement of artistic independence. As an artist eager to connect authentically with a global audience, Pax Maisín channels personal perspective into a sound that feels both local and internationally relevant. Her background as a DJ and curator is evident in the EP’s sharp sense of flow and pacing, with each track contributing to an overarching arc.
As a debut, 4mat of a Girl is a release of notable quality and coherence. It showcases an artist with a clear vision, capable of translating emotional nuance into finely detailed electronic production. The EP marks a compelling first chapter in Pax Maisín’s evolving catalogue, and it is a release we are pleased to host and highlight on our webzine through this review.