Let me begin with a confession: I’m a little threatened by happy albums. Not necessarily ones that preach optimism but ones that are content to immerse in complete satisfaction without an opposing undercurrent. I’m always looking for some recognition of sadness or disappointment in albums that otherwise convey positivity – maybe that says more about my skepticism than anything else, but it’s an aspect that I find to be an essential draw. My first play of
Days involved a great deal of searching, what with its breezy, sun-soaked indie rock and reassuringly warm vocals. And I came up with nothing: the reminiscence was blissful, the longing hopeful, the memories comforting. Surprisingly though, I found myself at complete peace, letting go of reservations and receiving its embrace willingly. It’s the kind of album that makes me wonder how much more we could get out of music if we could let go of expectations from the first play.
“Back when we had it so easy / I would surrender completely.”
Days captures the feeling of a summer daydream with effortless ease. The approach is appropriately set out from the opening track: circular, fluid riffs weave around steady drum patterns, forming a cushioning layer for warm vocal melodies to float upon. This premise is diffracted onto the following nine tracks with concern towards execution rather than variety; chords change and tempos differ, but the atmosphere remains laidback and unimposing, extending a hand towards the listener but never forcefully enveloping them. It is this courtesy that makes the album so easy to befriend, and likewise, so easy to return to in the fitting mood. Furthering the appeal are the lyrical thoughts that drift on the border between conscious awareness and subconscious loss, mirroring the faded recollection after a drawn-out daydream. These are classic, sentimental lines that fit comfortably within the nostalgic atmosphere. When it comes down to it,
Days is worth as much as you are willing to surrender to its aesthetic. Its endearing simplicity is coupled with an inviting warmth that I see myself returning to for years to come. It’s all about easing your reservations and allowing yourself to be swept away.
At least you do bbz. 
