Technically a 2024 release, with a 2025 vinyl release (and let’s be honest, is it really “released” unless it’s on vinyl?) Flying Lotus surprise-released the EP, ‘Spirit Box‘, which intriguingly bridges the gap between nostalgic sounds and his established futuristic vision.

This five-track project blends his signature experimental style with a surprising retro sensibility, drawing clear lines from the fusion-funk of the late 1970s to the house music of the 1980s. The two vocal tracks, in particular, highlight this throwback feel: Dawn Richard’s ‘Let Me Cook‘ evokes breezy, late-70s jazz, while Sid Sriram’s ‘The Lost Girls‘ recalls a past of beatnik bongos and poetic murmurs.

Alongside these are his characteristically psychedelic instrumentals like ‘Ajhussi‘ and the Twin Peaks-referencing ‘Garmonbozia,’ which are well-traveled territory for the producer. The house-influenced track, “Ingo Swann,” also reflects his ongoing work in cinematic anime scores.

This release follows a period of diverse activity for the producer since his 2019 album ‘Flamagra,’ including scoring the anime ‘Yasuke,’ releasing singles, and directing his first feature film, the sci-fi horror ‘Ash.’