B-Side Guys

Personal liberation rarely announces itself with fanfare—more often, it arrives through quiet moments of recognition when we finally stop running from ourselves and start walking toward who we’re meant to become. On his new EP “Camino,” Greco-Swedish artist Plàsi (Mikael Bitzarakis) transforms this process of self-discovery into 15 minutes of music that celebrates both the courage required to forge individual paths and the universal longing for authentic expression.

Released June 13th via Nettwerk, this five-track collection finds Plàsi operating with what he describes as “the ultimate creative freedom,” co-mingling sounds, moods, and textures based on instinct rather than commercial calculation. Following millions of streams and critical acclaim, he’s reached artistic maturity that allows for genuine risk-taking while maintaining the childlike wonder that has distinguished his work since emerging in 2015.

Opening track “Father’s Eyes” immediately establishes the EP’s emotional sophistication through what Plàsi describes as “lush alchemy of bright guitar, pulsating beat-craft, and evocative vocals.” The song explores the complex psychology of familial relationships, examining how we simultaneously reject and embody parental characteristics. “We don’t want to see or learn from our similarities,” Plàsi explains. “Instead, we’re just trying to be different from them.”

The track’s structure mirrors its thematic content through dialogue-like verses that present both perspectives within intergenerational conflict. When Plàsi accepts “You run away, but it looks like you,” it becomes moment of recognition rather than resignation—acknowledging inherited traits while maintaining agency over how they’re expressed. This psychological sophistication elevates the song beyond typical family dysfunction territory into genuine exploration of identity formation.

Sonically, “Father’s Eyes” represents what Plàsi calls his search for “grounded feeling where you could feel the acoustic elements without losing the bigger picture.” Working between Stockholm and his new Amsterdam studio (part of Swedish producer collective Röda Paradise), alongside longtime collaborators Hannes and Linus Hasselberg, he’s discovered production approach that honors his acoustic roots while embracing expansive sonic possibilities.

“Waiting For Signs” continues this exploration of patience and guidance, its arrangements creating space for contemplation while maintaining forward momentum. The track demonstrates Plàsi’s gift for transforming universal experiences—the anxiety of waiting for direction, the fear of making wrong choices—into specific musical moments that feel both intimate and cinematic.

“Efiga” provides necessary contrast through its more experimental approach, showcasing what Plàsi describes as living out his musicality without shame or limitation. The track’s unconventional structure and Greek title (reflecting his heritage) demonstrate artistic confidence that allows for genuine cultural expression rather than calculated diversity.

“Heights” explores different kind of elevation—both literal and metaphorical—through arrangements that build gradually toward expansive choruses. The song examines how perspective changes with distance, both geographic and temporal, creating musical equivalent to the clarity that comes from stepping back from immediate concerns to consider larger patterns.

Title track “Camino” provides perfect conclusion through its celebration of individual path-finding. The song’s sunny whistling and tropical beat create deceptively simple backdrop for message of personal independence. “For now, I walk my camino,” Plàsi sings, transforming Spanish word for “path” into personal anthem that acknowledges both the difficulty and necessity of authentic living.

As Plàsi explains, “It’s not the easiest thing to do. In this world, we’re put in boxes… but I remind myself to follow my own path instead of worrying about what others think.” This philosophy permeates the entire EP, creating music that encourages listeners to embrace their own journey rather than conforming to external expectations.

The production throughout demonstrates remarkable evolution since Plàsi’s earlier work. His experience touring with artists like José González, Axel Flóvent, and Hollow Coves has clearly influenced his understanding of how intimate songs can translate to larger venues, creating arrangements that scale effectively while maintaining emotional directness.

What distinguishes “Camino” from typical singer-songwriter releases is Plàsi’s refusal to limit himself to acoustic confession or electronic experimentation. Instead, he creates synthesis that feels natural rather than forced, proving that artistic growth often involves integration rather than abandonment of previous approaches.

His statement that “creating music and sharing it has opened up this camino for me” and “made me a better person—more human, less opportunistic” reflects artistic maturity that prioritizes personal development over career advancement. This authenticity translates directly into music that serves emotional truth rather than market demands.

For artist who has quietly eclipsed 100 million streams while maintaining artistic integrity, “Camino” represents perfect balance between accessibility and depth. Plàsi has created collection that rewards both casual listening and deeper engagement, proving that commercial success and artistic authenticity can enhance rather than compromise each other.

As he continues charting his own course, “Camino” stands as compelling invitation for listeners to do the same—to stay close to their dreams, embrace who they are, and keep walking their own paths with quiet conviction and ever-deepening connection to authentic self-expression.