The pacifying dream pop sound that Melbourne trio Arbes brought to light off the back of their admirable first EP Swimmer is marginally adapted in their second release Psalms. Remembrances of Warpaint or Alpine’s less electronic debut album spring to mind when listening to the seven track EP, but Arbes have captured something more melancholic.
Jess Zanoni’s delicate vocals take us on a purposeful journey in Sintra buoyed by a wistful guitar riff which takes a number of turns before paving way for an echoic synth outro. Follow Towards opens with a similarly eerie synth, distantly mimicking the ebbing and flowing tide. It’s largely instrumental but a defining message is established; a readiness to move on from past adversities shines through what is a solemn beginning.
Sun On My Back instantly has you grooving from its bouncy bassline and drum beat. The track explores the difficulty of accepting that something is finished which can, in turn, incite old emotions. The electric guitar is absent in No Home To Know, a refreshingly unhurried number embodying Arbes’ strikingly tranquil sound.
The title track features profound metaphors and emanates the decision to move forward without waiting for tardily acquaintances. The verses are supported by a leisurely-paced rhythm but everything culminates into the final chorus. Zanoni’s plea to her significant other is embellished with despair, almost desperation, as she condemns them of their wrongdoing. The final track Flutuar is an ambient soundtrack ruminating the EP’s dominant message – accept change and don’t be afraid to move on.
Arbes could be categorically considered a bedroom pop outfit however Psalms is a celebration of a more easy listening, languid sound than their debut EP, which delved, at times, into shoegaze territory.
BY TOM PARKER
