Passing By

Released in early 2022, Passing By is a quintessential example of Casiio's mastery over the lo-fi hip-hop medium. Spanning eight tracks but clocking in at just over fifteen minutes, the album functions as a series of sonic postcards. The recording is characterized by a high degree of 'flutter and wow' - intentional pitch instability caused by simulated or actual tape degradation - which gives tracks like 'Reservoirs' and 'Time Passing' a fragile, antique quality. Unlike many of his peers who rely on heavy side-chain compression, Casiio opts for a more breathable, dynamic mix here, allowing the field recordings of nature and domestic life to sit comfortably alongside the boom-bap influenced percussion. The album received positive reception within the downtempo community for its brevity and focus, serving as a bridge between functional study music and more intentional ambient composition.