Even though he is best known as the bassist for indie electronic supernovas Cut Copy, Ben Browning had most of his debut EP, Lover Motion, already written even before he joined the band. It’s hard to believe that Lover Motion wasn’t influenced by Cut Copy, because, well, they sound a lot a like. But that isn’t to say that Browning doesn’t have a lot to give. On Lover Motion, Browning falls a bit short as a songwriter, but makes up for it with smooth, atmospheric electronic sounds worthy of a Cut Copy alum.

The five-song EP cuts right to the chase, which is always a good thing. Kicking things off is “I Can’t Stay,” an easy-breezy slice of lighter fare, the closest you’ll get to Cut Copy’s dreamy dance pop of the five tracks. It’s likable and listenable, but luckily Browning switches things up and takes a darker turn with “Night Dunes,” which is a lot less Cut Copy and a lot more M83. Its shimmery synths and otherworldly vibe make it highly effective, even without words. The song is so good, you don’t need them.

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