Harmonics

Nostalgia Isn't What It Used To Be

Written by: PP on 24/12/2014 16:39:01

Harmonics are a Copenhagen based indie rock group who have stringed together two decent EPs prior to the release of their debut full-length "Nostalgia Isn't What It Used To Be" a couple of months ago. Much like the title suggests, we're dealing with a soundscape heavily drenched in nostalgia, and in places, melancholy, though we're speaking of the 80s kind. Think Depeche Mode and bands like that, throw in a little 90s alternative influence such as Placebo, while keeping it all distinctly in a P3-friendly indie rock world sound wise.

That's essentially the formula Harmonics utilize throughout the course of the album. Variation is offered solely in terms of how rock-ish the songs are. Opener "Pledge", for instance, is louder and has more distinct riffage than, say, the seven minute dreamy mammoth "No Time For Life" later on. The former style is where Harmonics are at their strongest: the vocal melodies are soaking in the aforementioned 80s nostalgia, and the effect-laden soundscape gives their expression a spacious vibe overall. The latter, however, is where Harmonics are decisively boring. Not enough is happening in the slower indie tracks to make them interesting even for die hard fans of the genre, mostly because their singer's voice, while a soothing presence across the album, doesn't have enough character to suggest otherwise.

Fortunately, the record has more good songs than boring ones, so a disaster is avoided. "Sally Girl" is another highlight, showcasing the aforementioned Placebo influence but also Brit rock parallels in general. Here, the vocal melody is somewhat more quirky and daring in style, providing much needed variation that helps the song stick out. These are the kinds of songs Harmonics need to be writing in the future. For now, a few good songs, but nothing you'll find on diverse end-of-year lists this year.

6

Download: Sally Girl, Pledge
For the fans of: Placebo
Listen: Facebook

Release date 15.09.2014
Self-Released

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