Palmistry’s pop is like the microcosm to Sophie’s implied universe. There is no doubt that Benjamin Keating is operating in modern-day London – his stylistic references are relevant, his production techniques reasonably accessibly. But I still get the sense of some really nagging reality to his work. His latest release, Ascensión, is the largest body of work attributed almost completely to Palmistry (he’s produced an album for Triad God before, as well as eeking out a couple killer singles), and provides a slight crack in the door to one of the more sensually understated artists to emerge from these new beatmakers.

One of the main appeals of Ascensión is its imperfect simplicity. Palmistry is able to dodge the suffocating power dynamics of modern radio beats without sacrificing those same tracks’ approach to addictive minimalism. Keating sings on a majority of the tracks. His melodic approach is pretty without trying to soar – the emotionality of this music is quiet, sensitive. No massive reverb trails or over-bearing R&B signifiers. Free for download at Palmistry’s site, or stream below.