This was my first Deerhunter album and I was very impressed to say the least. Categorized by several websites as 'Noise Rock', the band describes itself as 'Ambient Punk' and it could easily strike listeners as...well... incoherent(not so much this album, but their previous work). But it is in this 'noise, in this seeming 'chaos' that the band manages to achieve a strong sense of rhythm. This is done, primarily with incredibly prominent, catchy melodies. When coupled with lead singer Bradford Cox's placid voice, the 'chaos' is, in a sense neutralized, producing some very interesting results. A similar pattern can be seen with Baltimore-based Animal Collective's music as well. While their music is very different, the process of cutting through chaos with melody can is clearly evident.
Arcade Fire - The Suburbs
I believe that this album marks the 'arrival' of Arcade Fire. I've listened to their earlier albums - 'Funeral' and 'Neon Bible'. While neither of them had struck me as something extraordinary, both of them had immense potential and it appears that the band has successfully channeled this potential in 'The Suburbs'. Lyrically, the album is semi-autobiographical and captures the band members' experiences of growing up in the suburbs. Vocalist Win Butler has a melancholy manner of singing, which gives the entire album a haunting tone and a distinct character. On certain songs, his wife - Régine Chassagne takes over with a more lively, energetic manner of singing - something that provides stability to the album and makes it 'complete'.
Beach House - Teen Dream
Once again, this was the first Beach House album I listened to. Victoria Legrand's voice is distinct, with a hint of gruffness, while still keeping true to the ambient nature of Shoegazing and Alex Scally's bell-like guitars support her perfectly. The most striking aspect to Beach House's music is the structure of their melody. Legrand's melodies seem deliberately incomplete, in the sense, she suggests a certain melody and does not complete it, leaving room for the listener to...well... fill in the tiny blanks. This, I find particularly remarkable, simply because it works.
The Suburbs cover image sourced from here
Halcyon Digest cover image sourced from here
Teen Dream cover image sourced from here
