Tom Vek (@tomvekupdates) seemed to disappear five years ago after the release of his first album We Have Sound. Prior to becoming fully reclusive, though, there still wasn’t a great deal of self-promoted information available online (or anywhere really). He seemed to enjoy being the enigmatic figure worthy of speculation, and his long absence likely draws from that same desire. Fortunately for his followers, though, June 7th marks Vek’s return with Leisure Seizure, an album that, like its name describes, took a very leisurely five years to write and record.

With so much time to create each new track, Vek used the opportunity to collect new equipment and skills for self-production. Going through a period of what he describes as “unashamed creativity”, this album is bound to have a sonically wider range of genre influences and instrumentation. Without a doubt, though, Vek’s songs will continue to develop around ambiguous sounds and be rooted in some incredible beats.

The first single from Leisure Seizure, “A Chore”, is certainly a demonstration of Vek’s expanded production skills. Beginning with a catchy piano/synth rhythm, the hard-hitting introduction of percussion a few measures in captures exactly what I love about his music. The lyrics are obscure, the melodies are aggressive, and the drums are loud and raw. This new album may be more controlled than the last, but the original unrefined feel of Tom Vek seems to have remained.

Along with this single, Vek released a concept video that recognizes his five-year absence. Set as a cable show from the 50s, the characters express the frustration and boredom that come with being a part of “Tom Vek’s Island”. I’m so glad he’s decided to escape and come join us again.