Mirror Maru

Released in 2012 on the Belgian label Pelican Fly, Mirror Maru is the debut EP from Norwegian producer Magnus August Høiberg, better known as Cashmere Cat. This record was instrumental in defining the 'future bass' aesthetic, a genre characterized by its use of heavy sub-bass, bright synth colors, and rhythmic elements borrowed from Jersey Club and trap. The title track became a viral sensation, praised for its innovative use of non-musical samples - most notably the 'bed-squeak' rhythm - and its delicate, harp-like melodies. Critics from outlets like Pitchfork and Resident Advisor noted the EP's ability to bridge the gap between underground club music and mainstream R&B. Its success eventually led to Høiberg becoming a high-profile producer for artists like Ariana Grande and Kanye West, but Mirror Maru remains his most pure distillation of digital romanticism. It stands as a landmark of early 2010s electronic music, turning glitchy artifacts into emotional touchstones.