Don’t let their production methods fool you, for a bedroom studio it definitely is among the higher quality recordings in the industry. Teaming up with Capitol Records, they were able to layer the instruments incredibly well.
After opening for bands like Pixies and The Strokes, the singer Craig Fitzgerald said he took inspiration from their song composition. Hailing from Ireland, the group wrote the EP in their childhood home, layering it with nostalgic reflections and lessons learned. They take influences from they’re European indie counterparts, as their high end guitar melodies pierce through the drum and bass.
If you’re looking for a guilty pleasure for your indie pop needs, but those radio hits are overplayed, “Not Your Summer,” is the track you’re looking for. The acoustic rhythm to pump you up, and electronic guitar to compliment the vocals while the drummer holds a catchy rhythm.
There’s nothing here that wants to surprise you or catch you off guard and say “hey wasn’t that an interesting bit?” The band is really straightforward, giving you something to sing along to halfway through the first listen.
If you are looking for an early 2000’s bass heavy riff, “Smart Mouth” is probably your cup of tea. The keys drive home nicely and it feels like it ends too soon, though it’s fine because there’s always the replay button.
Radio-friendly hits may not be for every reader here and that’s cool. Maybe you’re the type who shrivels at the thought of Cage the Elephant, if that’s you than don’t hit play. However, if you are down with the Strokes, The Killers and pop acts then you should definitely check out The Academic.
