Beyond Serious

Released in 2017 on Warp Records, Beyond Serious is a four-track EP that sees Stephen Wilkinson (Bibio) leaning heavily into his love for house and funk. While his previous work often flirted with these genres, this release places them front and center, departing from the acoustic-heavy 'A Mineral Love' era. The EP was inspired by Wilkinson's desire to create tracks that were more direct and dance-oriented while maintaining his signature 'wonky' analog production style. Each track utilizes heavy tape saturation and hardware-based sequencing to achieve a sound that feels tactile and organic. Critically, it was seen as a refreshing detour that showcased Wilkinson's versatility as a producer, proving his aesthetic could translate effectively to a 4/4 club context without losing its pastoral charm. It remains a standout in his discography for its high energy and playful spirit.