If I had to summarize the sound of Metronomy's third studio album The English Riviera in two words, I would say "summer album." Or I suppose "minimal instrumentation" would work too, since this album seems to be all about getting the most feeling out of the least amount of input. Compared with Metronomy's previous releases, which could be designated comfortably as synth pop, this minimalist sound is very different for the group.
With The English Riviera, Metronomy write some super catchy and breezy sounding songs with a few simple hooks and choruses, some seriously scaled down percussion (think kick, snare, hi hat and a shaker... and that's pretty much it), a bass guitar and occasionally one or two other instruments per song. Rarely is their a wall of sound playing behind the songs because the band utilizes the empty space that exists between notes, which results in some melodies that really pop (thanks to some incredibly clear and crisp production as well). Every single instrument is completely discernible, and the harmonies they create are what make every song interesting. There are no epic choruses or sweeping pop anthems on this album, because even though this is pop music it still has the vibe of a surf rock album. The bright, minimalist instrumentation matches the simplicity of the album artwork. These songs make me feel like I'm kicking back on a beach and just listening to waves.
The singles (She Wants, The Look, The Bay, and Everything Goes My Way) all hold their own as great songs, but they don't overshadow the rest of the album either. Songs like Corrine and the title track are just as sunny and breezy sounding as the lead singles. And while not many of the lyrics were all that memorable to me, both male lead vocals and female backing vocals sound laid back enough to fit with the albums super chill and poppy vibe.
I'm actually pretty stoked to have rediscovered this album (thanks shuffle!) and as soon as this endless downpour of rain lets up and the sun comes back out I'll probably be in the mood to play this album on repeat for a while.
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