This is an interesting EP. Its release marks ten years since the original three compositions were issued under the name LUCHS. This new release includes both the original recordings and slightly reworked versions, with the updated interpretations opening the EP.

The EP begins with "Her Eyes The Stars (X)", the "X" presumably denoting the version recorded ten years later, a convention that appears across all three tracks. First and foremost, this is a beautiful piece of music. I have to admit, though, that apart from a slight key change, there is not a great deal separating the two versions. Conventionally, there is only one instrument being played, but another important element is the ambient sound itself, much of it emanating from the piano: creaks, resonances and subtle tones created as the instrument is played. It's a short piece, at just over two minutes long, but effortlessly beautiful.

The next track, "II (X)", again centres around piano and ambient tones. As before, there is a slight key change between this and the original version, but here the reworking also introduces a much cleaner, more stripped-back sound, which I think I prefer.

The final track, "Ljusnan (X)", shows the greatest divergence from the original. Once again, the arrangement is more stripped back, yet conversely I find myself preferring the earlier version. The original possesses a dreamlike quality that doesn't quite carry over into the reworking. I suspect this was entirely intentional. Patrik clearly had a particular vision in mind when revisiting these compositions, and I'm sure the new versions align perfectly with that vision. Sometimes, though, it is difficult to outshine the original work.

For many listeners, this will be their first encounter with these pieces, so in effect they're getting twice the value. It's fascinating how thoughts, perspectives and creative ambitions surrounding a piece of music can evolve over time. There's often a desire to revisit a work, to refine elements that no longer feel quite right, or simply to see where a fresh interpretation might lead. Whatever the motivation, this is a beautiful EP, one that's easy to become completely absorbed in.