By Princess Russell |Staff Writer|
Bloom, Beach House’s first album in over two years, is a darkly melodramatic mix of dream- pop that consumes you upon the first listen.
The album is the Baltimore-based indie band’s follow up to their critically-acclaimed sophomore album, “Teen Dream.” This new work picks up right where “Dream” left off.
The simple yet appealing track titles such as “Myth,” “Lazuli” and “Trouble Maker” intrigue listeners and sets the tone for the decadently dark lyrics each song brings.
Every track has a uniquely distinct introduction. Much of the album could easily be the soundtrack to a major motion picture.
Bloom doesn’t capture its listeners with an immediate attention grabber, but once the bridge of the first track rises, listeners become hooked.
“My mother said to me that I would get in trouble / Our father won’t come home because he is seeing double,” croons lead vocalist Victoria Legrand.
The sounds and instruments are simple but the imaginative manipulation of echoing vocals and space-like ambiances allow listeners to feel so much more than music. Bloom blossoms some genuine emotions.
The fifth track, “The Hours,” is a more upbeat song that breaks away from the overall darkness of the album. It’s an inviting track that begins with an alluring choir and a guitar riff that is reminiscent of a siren’s song.
Legrand’s voice is the most prominent sound the listener hears. Her deep and powerful voice seems almost ghostly in nature.
The second prominent component the listener experiences is the surprisingly futuristic melodies in each song. Beach House’s lyrics have a certain vulnerability to them. One of the lines from the song “Myth” illustrates that point with dark honesty.
“Why didn’t I wait / will we make it…” Legrand moans as if pleading to a long lost lover. “Lazuli,” the third track on the album, has dark lyrics but a light pulsating beat with lyrics about moving on.
The final track, “Irene,” has a distinctly concert-like vibe. The use of guitar vibrates through your veins and the drums create a sense of angst.
Bloom does not employ the predictable indie formula of catchy choruses and hypnotic beats listeners have grown accustomed to. This album is proof that catchy music and passionate production is possible without having to forfeit lyrical substance.
Prior to the album’s release, Beach House took an extended period off to spend more time focusing on the integrity of their music rather than just a few “crossover singles” that would become pop hits.
“On our first record, I remember having $1,000 in my bank account, and I felt like I was rich,” Scally said in an interview with Billboard. “We realized that people liked [our music] and if we took this seriously, this could be our lives.”
Bloom has a refreshing element of lyricism and thematic honesty that perfectly compliments Beach House’s sound and proves that Beach House is back in business.