The Serious EP

Released in late 2016 as a companion to his full-length 'A Mineral Love', The Serious EP represents Stephen Wilkinson's most explicit foray into synth-pop and blue-eyed soul. While Bibio is historically associated with lo-fi 'folktronica' and tape-warped acoustic guitars, this release showcases a polished, 'hi-fi' aesthetic inspired by 70s and 80s R&B. The title track, featuring Olivier St. Louis, serves as the centerpiece, blending funk sensibilities with Wilkinson's meticulous production. The EP is notable for its use of hardware synthesizers and drum machines that provide a more structured, rhythmic foundation than his earlier pastoral works. Critics noted the release for its 'sophisti-pop' leanings, comparing the sound to artists like Prefab Sprout or Scritti Politti. It stands as a pivotal moment in his catalog where the 'nostalgia' element shifted from rural childhood memories to urban, neon-lit pop history.