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Review of “Frankie & Estelle” EP by Hyporadar


In the barren musical landscape of Sabattus, Maine, where the sound of creativity is often drowned out by silence, one artist has risen to show the world that talent and dedication can flourish in even the most unlikely places. Hyporadar, hailing from this small town, defies the odds by creating a masterpiece that speaks volumes through its sound and story. His EP “Frankie & Estelle is a striking exploration of love, conflict, and human connection, told through the lens of two contrasting characters. Released on January 22, 2025, is a remarkable display of artistry, particularly in its unique blend of bass-driven melodies and deeply personal narrative.


At the heart of “Frankie & Estelle lies the unmistakable presence of the bass guitar, an instrument Hyporadar has made his own. From the very first track, “Hey Cabbie,” the bass is both a driving force and a subtle guide, setting the mood for a world that’s gritty, yet familiar. Hyporadar’s choice to play every instrument himself, recording each part in his basement, speaks volumes about his commitment to his craft. He may not have a collaborative team to bounce ideas off, but his meticulous approach to layering sounds and creating a self-contained environment for his music allows each track to bloom with raw, undiluted passion. The result is an EP that feels expansive and intimate, an experience that’s entirely his own yet one that resonates deeply with listeners.



The thematic backbone of “Frankie & Estelle is influenced by Thaddeus Logan’s book Hey Cabbie, a collection of tales about the life of a seasoned Baltimore cab driver. Hyporadar takes this inspiration and spins a narrative that explores two parallel perspectives: that of Frankie, the cab driver, and Estelle, a waitress. This duality is at the core of the EP, with songs like “Frankie Sullivan and “Estelle” playing out the same events from two distinct angles. It’s a compelling narrative choice, one that enriches the listening experience and adds layers of depth to the music. “Frankie Sullivan” stands out as one of the EP’s defining tracks, capturing a moment of the chance meeting that is both bittersweet and relatable, while “Estelle offers her side of the story, filled with emotion and reflection.


What truly elevates the EP, however, is the way Hyporadar plays with structure and dynamics across these tracks. Each song is meticulously crafted to balance narrative with melody. The track “Grifter introduces a darker, more brooding tone, while “Keep the Meter Running serves as the perfect closer, wrapping up the story while offering a sense of unresolved tension. The ability to switch gears between the smoothness of groove-based tracks and the harder, punchier moments creates a musical ebb and flow that keeps listeners on their toes. The seamless transitions between the two storytelling points of view also highlight Hyporadar’s growing technical ability, especially as he fine-tuned his mixing and recording processes with upgraded equipment.


The recording process is a testament to Hyporadar’s work ethic and resourcefulness. With no collaborators to rely on, he’s had to become both performer and producer, recording multiple tracks to bring his vision to life. Whether it’s laying down the bass for two songs in one sitting or crafting intricate drum patterns the next day, the effort behind the music is palpable. There’s a palpable sense of achievement in the final product, one that reflects both the technical growth and the artistic leap Hyporadar has made since his earlier releases. Every note, every rhythm, and every word has been meticulously considered.


In “Frankie & Estelle, Hyporadar has crafted an EP that stands as a pivotal moment in his musical journey. The concept album approach, which was born out of a desire to tell a story, has transformed into something far greater, a raw, authentic expression of his artistic identity. While it may have been produced in the isolation of a basement, the sound that emerges is far from solitary. It’s the product of someone who is deeply connected to their craft and the world around them, and who has found a way to connect those worlds through music. For those who appreciate rich, layered storytelling and intricate musicianship, “Frankie & Estelle is an EP worth diving into. Hyporadar is no longer just an artist from Sabattus but is ready to leave a lasting imprint on the music world.


For more, follow Hyporadar on Spotify and YouTube



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