U.L.A

Anyone with mixed heritage knows that the question "where are you from?" leads itself to inevitably sour and exhaustingly repeated follow-ups. In the experience of Australian electronic producer Maggie Tra, born to Cambodian and Vietnamese parents, "but, you look Asian" is usually asked immediately afterward. Her latest EP, U.L.A, is her reappropriation and response to the trope: a groovy collage exploring her unique heritage and upbringing.

Throughout the project, Maggie Tra morphs Cambodian and Vietnamese samples into dance-centric production. Ranging from the laid-back intro, "Can I Get Close to You," to the upbeat titular track, "U Look Asian," the four-track EP is as diverse mood-wise as its sonic origins. Blocky percussions compliment standardized Western dance drums, adding a cohesive overlay over the project that sonically intertwines each track. U.L.A is a perfect peek into Maggie Tra's skillset and sonic identity, leaving a listener wanting more.