Review Summary: Max Relax combines the weirdest blend of influences from different artists, often in the one song, but to good effect.
With the first thirty seconds of Max Relax hitting the perfect mix between psychedelia, groove organ and ‘70s porno soundtrack, Brisbane rock band Millions make quite an impression on their debut album. Departing from the rockier sounds of their 2012 EPs Nine Lives Six Degrees and Cruel, the Brisbane boys have found their own distinctive psychedelic style.
Max Relax combines the weirdest blend of influences from different artists, often in the one song. Lead single Clementine demonstrates this mix of genre: the opening verse sounds like a catchy but corny Christmas single, and then subtly shifts into an angsty indie rocker. This makes for a very original, albeit confusing sound that is ultimately very enjoyable.
While Millions have certainly come a long way in developing their musical expertise and production quality, the standard of songwriting is slightly lacking. Similarly to their earlier work, nearly all songs are about relationships, making many songs largely indistinguishable lyrically. Songs like B Chill have the potential to build up into something climactic but end up being a bit subdued. This contrasts to the best song on the album, Unchained. The dreamy song takes the listener on a sad stroll in a park late at night, and then peaks into a magical psychedelic dream that sounds like The Beatles at their Sgt. Pepper’s peak.
Overall, Max Relax is an interesting and enjoyable listen. Millions are a band to keep your eye on.
