RECOMMENDED. Do you know the brilliance that is Pinback? Let the first solo EP from Pinback songwriter Armistead Burwell Smith IV (aka 'Zach' or ABSIV) refresh your memory. Capturing the essence of Pinback's greatness, Zach's solo endeavor takes off where Pinback left off. The former founding member and primary songwriter of Three Mile Pilot and Pinback has already proven his talents as a musician and songwriter. But now, assuming the name SYSTEMS OFFICER, Zach is the sole instrumentalist and arranger. The result is breathtakingly moving music that explores a range of emotions, both beautiful and sad, and engulfs your entire essence in the torrents of an emotional earthquake. Zach's unmistakable voice is tender but inflicting as it streams over the driving rhythm and gentle melodies created by his multi-instrumental brilliance. While sometimes as gentle as Elliott Smith, or as poppy as The Police, or as interesting as Brian Eno or as contemporary as Trans Am, the seamless fluidity and talent apparent throughout the five songs will leave listeners in a state of precarious contemplation, craving more of his unique brand of powerful, thoughtful music.