Michael S. Baker explores the idea of someone slipping away in his debut single and video as Hasten Mercy, “These Things.” Baker has a long history of finding evocative sonic elements to convey emotions for his tracks, often using his skills with his visionary rock band Head Fake. “These Things” showcases a variety of soundscapes and textures, with Baker bringing his main characters to life with a plaintive lead vocal that is at once descriptive and sympathetic. Baker is preparing to release a three-track, self-titled EP, testifying to his stylistic flexibility as a songwriter and performer. The brief but concise project packs in muted synthpop, intimate folk-rock, energetic new wave, some rougher and louder sounds, all handled with precision. “These Things...