Future Teens “Self Help”
This Boston quartet may call themselves a “bummer pop band,” but Self Help really packs an emo-punch. The album was created over ten days with producer Andy Park (Death Can For Cutie). The concept is wrapped around the emotional journeys one takes through therapy. The lyrics are strong, the melodies are loaded with power, and Amy Hoffman’s strong vocals on the opener “Doorknob Confessional” recalls Alanis Morissette. Daniel Radin’s vocals in “Good Reason” are equally impressive, noting that “everything that happens is for some goddamn good reason.”
“Smile With Your Teeth” is another tune that deserves attention, and “BYOB” muses on the emotional spiral of alcoholism. The stories are neatly matched instrumentally, but the approach loses some stream in the second half. On “Team Sports” Amy confesses “Lately I could use a hand, but I’m not sure how to ask for it.” This album is a definite helping hand to anyone dealing with intense feelings. Highly Recommended.
Disq “Desperately Imagining Someplace Quiet”
The young Madison, Wisconsin band is desperately trying to grow after their brilliant debut, Collector in 2020. They throw in a lot of ideas here, some work and others don’t. The massive variety of styles and shifting instrumental changes make for unpredictable and exciting listening.
The light harmonies of “Prize Contest Life” in the song’s middle are contrasted with its screaming noise-pop bookends. Next, “Cujo Kiddies” shuffles along its catchy verses with just enough synth & beat to make it very danceable. They still can play loud and fuzzy with “This Time” and “The Hardest Part,” as it brings to mind the band’s debut. Then “If Only” adds a friendly little Wilco-styled alt. Americana to the mix, while “Tightrope” is like a long-lost Weezer song. The most impressive tune here “(With Respect To) Loyal Serfs” is a slowly building gem that settles in with its heavy riffs and hooks. Overall, a good album that has plenty of fun music. Definitely, music that deserves to be heard.
