2014-04-12
With Architecture in Helsinki's newest, cheekily-titled release Now + 4EVA, the band accepts with WIDE open arms an unapologetically contemporary synth-pop aesthetic, complete with George Michael-esque vocal stylings from Cameron Bird and a tepid yet somehow aggressive cover of Jackie DeShannon's 1963 hit "When You Walk in the Room." Formerly an 8-piece, the Fitzroy, Australia group slimmed down to 5 members and focused their energy on producing a polished and focused pop sound that is evocative of 80s cheesiness and modern disposable radio "bangers." Unlike the chaotic, often bizarre compositions found on the band's earlier albums, Now + 4EVA embraces more linear and unchallenging song structures, and, all told, fails more than it succeeds.
THE SHINS
Wincing the Night Away
JASON ISBELL AND THE 400 POUND UNIT
JASON ISBELL AND THE 400 POUND UNIT
VARIOUS ARTISTS
Rave On Buddy Holly
Graham Parker
Don't Tell Columbus
PARTICLE
Transformations Live for the People
TORI AMOS
Live At Montreux 1991 & 1992
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