From Colorado via Brooklyn, New York is electronic pop duet Chairlift, and their newly released second album Something. Combining the sugar-sweetness of their debut album with some darker synthesised sounds, on initial listen Something can feel a little bland. However, on every multiple listen each song reveals a trait or quirk that makes it that bit more recognisable and attractive.
Opening track Sidewalk Safari sums up the album; though the surrounds initially appear a little grey and pedestrian, there is a lot more going on than first assumed. Wrong Opinion sounds almost The Knife-esque with the dark stabbing of a drum machine and synthesised chimes.
Take It Out On Me is a smooth ’80s-influenced pop song, Caroline Polachek’s vocals are silky and demure. Met Before, the most current single from the album is reminiscent of the Shangri-Las, had they a penchant for corny synthesizer melodies; a refreshing mix of eras.
Frigid Spring takes a different turn; creating a picture involving a gentle breeze and flowers blowing, Polachek’s beautiful voice is soft, floating alongside a basic strum of guitar and bubbly keyboard melody.
The approaching-sinister appeal of the first few songs returns to see the album’s end with Guilty As Charged. Polachek’s voice takes on a more sultry appeal; “Go on and punish me” she hisses out, as the booming of brash synthesiser punches through.
Something is definitely not a taxing listen. It is a release that does not hold much weight and could even be accused of being forgettable. However, its subtle mood changes and Polachek’s flawless voice create an easy listening and enjoyable set of songs. To those who happen across the album, enjoy.
BY ALEXANDRA DUGUID
Best Track: Take It Out On Me
If You Like This, You’ll Like These: THE HUMAN LEAGUE
In A Word: Undemanding
