Music Album Reviews
A 12-track alternative album released on March 2nd, 2017 by American group DREAMCAR. DREAMCAR’s self-titled work did not disappoint. Each track has a similar upbeat tempo with a catchy drum beat paired with a calming guitar. The lead singer’s voice brought me into a trance of sorts, in which my mood was instantly brightened as soon as I heard the first track. “Kill for Candy” is a feel-good jam with a summery vibe that can be anyone’s new summer anthem. The song that stood out most in my opinion was “On the Charts” due to its somewhat “old school” guitar sound. If you are a fan of 90’s pop music, you may find yourself loving DREAMCAR’s music. This band is a breath of fresh air from all current music, and every time I have listened to the self-titled album, it feels like the perfect ‘Throwback Thursday’.
Side B, by the late indie pop singer, Christina Grimmie was released on April 21, 2017. The EP opens with the calm, “I Only Miss You When I Breathe”. The song describes the singer’s pain as she misses someone who she loves dearly. Next, Grimmie belts her heart out, claiming that she won’t be “Invisible”. The song has heavy EDM elements and in my opinion, is the most moving because of the message within the song. “I won’t be another ghost, no I won’t be invisible”. The irony within this song is extremely powerful. In track 3, “The Game”, the tempo slows down once again as Grimmie describes having feelings for someone who fails to pay any attention to her because they are focused on their own ‘game”. The final track. “I Won’t Give Up” is reinvented by Grimmie and her team. Overall, Side B, put a giant smile on my face as Grimmie’s legacy continues on.
At What Cost by American rapper Goldlink, was released on March 24th of this year. The album starts with “Opening Credit” which has a bunch of jumbled up sounds that lead into a smooth transition into the rest of the album. The first several tracks don’t have distinct sounds, just repetitive beats with plain lyrics. Things really start to pick up at “Meditation,” which had a chill beat during the verses and a catchy chorus. Other memorable tracks are “Roll Call” that serve great energy, and “Kokomo Freestyle” that had a tribal-like beat that would be perfect to play at a party. Overall, At What Cost may not have had the best lyrics, but Goldlink showed his originality in his beats and production of the album.
