elliotreadd – ‘horse tape’ [EP] [Album Review]

Scottish-born, London-based artist and producer elliotreadd takes a step away from the world of underground hip-hop to explore a more experimental sound on his debut EP, horse tape. This four-track snapshot provides an exciting glimpse into the mind of elliotreadd, with strong influence from the likes of Elliot Smith and Bon Iver to Rainy Miller and Bassvictim.

Just shy of eight minutes, this project explores equestrian life through the eyes of ambient, bedroom-pop and distorted guitar riffs. Track two, “Chasing My Fears,” is the most animated song on the tape, incorporating folk-rock–esque vocal and instrumental samples alongside his own vocals on the hook. The project patiently builds up to its spectacular finale, “horse lyfe,” a two-sided tale over the course of one minute thirty. Distorted vocals and jittery feedback converse with uncertainty as the track builds, culminating in a satisfying release of tension driven by the drums.

I spoke with Elliot about the project and the symbolism of horses, specifically the one included on the cover. He said that “horses are beautiful and symbols of power, but something about this blind Scottish horse felt more familiar, more personal,” seeing this horse surrounded by family back home in Scotland reminded him that beauty is often right in front of us, regardless of imperfection. The image inspired him to piece this project together with tracks he felt emulated this feeling.

This incredibly inspired yet original debut from elliotreadd has kept us wondering what is next to come from the artist.

Run Time: 7:47
Release Date: November 28, 2025
Record Label: Self-Release