Passion Pit’s Manners LP Features A Classic Blend of Old & New
Passion Pit can best be described as a sweet hybrid concoction of Death Cab Cutie, MGMT and Polyphonic Spree. But this band’s feisty foursome is packing a mightier electronic-driven punch with Manners by infusing a heavy dose of new wave electronica into the core of their modern Indie melodies.
The new album’s first track Make The Light, features a flurry of guitarist Ian Hultquist’s soaring riffs followed by Michael Angelakos’ formidable falsetto. Then, 90s retro synth grooves kick into full gear. This new tune serves as a reminder that a bands established longevity is not confined by simple keyboard-driven melodies (e.g., Keane- I hope you are listening).
Backed behind a resonating campfire-chorus, this 80s beat-intensive tune features retro dance samples reminiscent of vintage Pet Shop Boys. This track has become a staple for many deejay sets across the globe, who are providing their own creative concoction for this mega Indie single.
The Erasure-esque Sleepyhead is an Orient-flavored sonorous melody that could be considered an unofficial tribute to the British synth group’s 1990s chart-topping single Always. Passion Pit employs multi-vocal sound effects, strings and minimalist techno soundscapes, recalling flavors of the Far East. The lyrics leave the impression that the band is crooning about having an out-of-body experience while having a lucid nightmare."With all their lions and all their might and all their thirst, they crowd your bedroom like some thoughts wearing thin."
These Cambridge Mass. lads have produced an electrifying new album built on retro dance beats and classic Indie pop. But they must continue to push the envelope by experimenting with more modern electronica to avoid the possibility of a potential sophomore slump.
Grade: A-
