Emotive and dreamy with a hint of nostalgia, ‘Songs for Sons with a Fucked Up Dad’ is the latest intimate release from Belgian band Tin Fingers. The band who make self-proclaimed ‘crooked pop music’ have collaborated with record label, DHB, to twist and shape-shift the track into a series of remixes on a 4-track EP.

The original Tin Fingers composition blurs the lines between genres, blending and bending styles, and instrumentation. Dream-like vocals of lead singer Felix Machtelinckx float in reverb, while the layers of dynamic production carry the track, revealing rawness and fragility. The series of remixes takes ‘Songs for Sons with a Fucked Up Dad’ out of its comfort zone and on a journey of individual interpretations.

The opening remix is by Nico Morano, Belgian DJ and producer, who takes the spirit of the song and morphs it into something personal. Maintaining the hypnotic quality of the original, Nico Morano’s remix picks out percussive timbres of deep house styles. He holds onto the emotion of the song, creating vulnerability through Machtelinckx’s vocals, who is still a centerpiece of the remix. Melodic house combined with deep house, the sweeping, stuttering of synths and entrancing rhythms bring something new while paying tribute to the honesty of ‘Songs for Sons with a Fucked Up Dad.’

International Afro House producer, Enoo Napa, takes the track in a darker direction, with moody undertones of brooding drones and scatters of shaking percussion. Deep bass lines pulse throughout, exploring the darker depths of the original. The vocals take on a haunting, obscure quality while the electronic soundscape feels foreboding. There’s an air of mystery as it hides in the shadows of Tin Finger’s initial composition.

The longest track on the EP, is &lez’s remix, combining afro and melodic house with techno. Percussive-heavy with a consistent beat throughout, there are flourishes of bright piano and experimental sound effects. New synth lines are added transcending the sonic landscape further. When the vocals are introduced, they float in the far-off distance, refraining from the forefront of the mix. The lyrics become unique, almost indecipherable focusing on the timbre and expression. Exploring glitchy vocal effects and tempo increases in the synths, &lez’s version is dark and in some ways dissonant.

Bringing the EP to a close is Belgian DHB label DJ, NICKO/////, who has perhaps crafted the most experimental version. With persistent drums and a droning synth, the remix builds into something climatic and eerie. Playing with melodic techno characteristics, this version is atmospheric, experimenting with drum sounds, synth rhythms, and fragments of vocals that transform into an instrument of their own. There’s a sense of release in the drop-down section, offering space for their vocals before its blended electronic techno elements fall to a hypnotic drop.

This impactful collaboration is a debut concept for DHB, combining the world of house music, with an alternative pop track. Each interpretation has its own flair and personal touch, but being respectful to never stray too far away from the emotional aspect of the Tin Finger’s creation.