A slew of new tunes have been added to WGRE as we approach the Ides of March and, more ominously, midterms. Ranging from a former Fleet Foxes drummer to a Canadian electronic duo, the music staff hopes these additions can freshen up an otherwise overcast March.
Father John Misty – “True Affection” – The dissemination of Fleet Foxes was a dagger in the heart for countless indie folk fans. Despite the gapping hole in listeners’ hearts that was once filled with the Foxes’ pleasant tracks, one shining light remains amidst the aftermath: Father John Misty. The former drummer named Joshua Tillman kick-started his side project with 2012’s "Fear Fun." Having followed a drug-induced psychedelic trip, Tillman’s debut album was seen as evidence of his experimental intentions.
This is furthered in Tillman’s February release "I Love You, Honeybear." The disc’s self-titled track initiates the album, as swaying orchestration and relational cynicism coast through its entirety. “True Affection” impressively strays away from this norm, though, as Tillman encapsulates the track with heavy synths and layered percussion. Similarly singing about plagues to modern relationships, Tillman proves through his electronic mixing that his range is by no means limited to folk. This could be an initial taste of the next potential avenue for Tillman to explore.
Colleen Green – “Deeper Than Love” – Sub Pop songstress Colleen Green shows off her punk tendencies in "I Want To Grow Up." Her third album since 2011 is filled with gritty riffs and bubbly sarcasm. “TV” and “I Want To Grow Up” emphasize Green’s experiences in maturing and relying on technology.
“Deeper Than Love” transcends this, though, as an eerie six-minute display of Green’s internal thoughts. Undermined by unprecedented synths, the dark atmosphere in “Deeper Than Love” is actually a refreshing detour midway through the otherwise lively album.
Purity Ring – “Dust Hymns” – Purity Ring’s recent release, "Another Eternity," arrives at a pivotal point in the Canadian duo’s career. As the duo’s sophomore album, "Another Eternity" grants the opportunity to verify longevity and display influences that have arisen since 2012’s "Shrines." Although it isn’t overly noteworthy in its entirety, “Heartsigh,” and “Push Pull” remind listeners of the duo’s charming vocals and similitude with Scottish trio CHVRCHES.
While this isn’t a drastic change from "Shrines," individual tracks like “Dust Hymns,” provide a tenacious twist from the rest of "Another Eternity." Megan James’ lead is complimented with elements of trap music. Craftily implemented, this approach intensifies the track without exhausting it.