I went on a binge of somewhat obscure '80s singles this afternoon which I feel aptly
prepared me for the experience listening to this album as it definitely draws from the
synthpop and electronics of the New Wave era than most music I have heard this year. That
isn't to say it is derivative by any means, because I do feel it forges its own identity
away from the Yorke and Greenwood dominate Radiohead (and their other projects) which is a
very nice change of pace, despite my adoration for the band.
The '80stastic synth and electronic work is most blunt on "Our Song" and "Easier". These two
tracks, while interesting enough don't really stand out much. It doesn't help matters than I
find Laura Bettinson's shrill falsetto when she sings "wanna make is eaaaaaasier" kinda puts
me off a bit. Also, the final track, while having a lot of potential, just kind of peters
out which doesn't do it a whole lot of justice.
I find myself far more drawn to the opener, "Bad Insects" and the third track "Strange
Insects". The atmosphere on "Party Line" is what gets my attention most out of this crowd.
The piano melody set to the flowing synth strings and Bettinson's justwhineyenough voice
makes for a truly beautiful track for me. That track is followed by "Wash it over" which has
the catchiest hook on the album. "Come on and wash it over me...come on and wash it over
me".
This all being said, this album does have its own personality and is an experience in and
off itself. I just wish some of the soundscapes weren't so bland for me.
