Backnbloom’s self titled EP adopted the synth-rock formula that is becoming ever more popular with the success of such indie bands like Passion Pit, MGMT, Friendly Fires, and Atlas Sound. Unfortunately, Backnbloom’s mix of electronic pop makes them sound like a band from the 90’s rather than one of these bands embodying the musical zeitgeist of the present.
The electronic landscape of the EP doesn’t take many chances because the musical duo of Lori Steel and Alberto Beka simply don’t know how to do it properly. On songs like “New September” and “Am I Pretty” the poppy guitar rhythms, robotic drumbeats, electronic violin, and synthesized mixings simply don’t make the mark. It comes off as an ill layered ensemble that makes you picture a confused teenager clad in Goth makeup, a hipster flannel, and preppy kakis with loafers in an attempt to define who they are – of course the moment you lay eyes on the adolescent you think “Damn, that kid doesn’t know who he wants to be.”
But, to be fair, those two songs are perhaps the worst on the EP, both lyrically – “New September” boasting lines like “We just can’t go back to the way it used to be.” – and musically. Of course, there are only five songs on the EP, which makes for a pretty abysmal grade. Nevertheless, as the band was most likely aware, a strong beginning and strong finish are the most important elements. “Hollywood Blvd.,” the opening track of the EP, draws you in with its catchy synthesized rhythms and “Real To Me (dance remix)” closes out the album with a danceable, techno influenced revelry that would fit in at any ecstasy drenched rave.
Unfortunately, even these two songs can’t save the EP, as none of the songs on the album beg to be put on your “party playlist” or any other list where you would hear these songs over and over again. The trite lyrical content and little girl voice of Lori Steele that thickly coats the reserved, electronic pop annoys more than induces enjoyment. I think the song “Am I Pretty” captures the essence of the EP in that the song continually asks the question “Am I pretty?”
Like a first date where your date continually finds it necessary to ask, “Are you having a good time?” thanks to their nagging insecurity, which ultimately makes you want to scream, “Yes, I am having a good time! Now chug your drink and wolf down that meal so I can take you home and never see you again,” by the end of the song you want to scream, “Yes, you are pretty! Now finish this song so I can turn off this album and never listen to it again!”
Collin Minnis-MuzikReviews.com Contributor
November 4, 2009
