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Shattering Eardrums🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: This Heart Is Occupied
Track 2: When We Were Stars
Track 3: All Day
Track 4: My Kind
Track 5: Keep Going
Track 6: Gauguin, Cézanne (Everlasting Love)
Track 7: Witness Tree
Track 8: Black Balloon
Track 9: The Elevator
Track 10: Maybe We’re Alright
🎸 Album Review:
Guster, the beloved alternative rock band known for their infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics, have returned with their latest studio album “Ooh La La”. This album, released in 2020, marks a significant moment in the band’s discography as they continue to evolve their sound while staying true to their signature style. With a tracklist featuring ten carefully crafted songs, “Ooh La La” showcases Guster at their most introspective and musically adventurous.
From the opening track “This Heart Is Occupied”, the album immediately sets a contemplative tone with its gentle acoustic guitar and ethereal harmonies. The song introduces the listener to the album’s overarching themes of love, loss, and resilience, which are woven throughout the entire record. As the album unfolds, tracks like “When We Were Stars” and “All Day” showcase Guster’s knack for crafting catchy, yet emotionally resonant tunes that linger in the listener’s mind long after the music has stopped.
One of the standout tracks on “Ooh La La” is “My Kind”, a poignant ballad that showcases lead singer Ryan Miller’s emotive vocals and the band’s ability to create a lush sonic landscape. The song builds to a stirring crescendo, driven by a pulsating rhythm section and shimmering guitars, making it a standout moment on the album. Similarly, “Keep Going” offers a sense of hope and perseverance, with its uplifting chorus and dynamic instrumentation.
Guster takes a more experimental approach on tracks like “Gauguin, Cézanne (Everlasting Love)”, blending intricate vocal harmonies with swirling synths and intricate percussion. The result is a mesmerizing sonic tapestry that showcases the band’s willingness to push musical boundaries while maintaining their melodic sensibilities. “Witness Tree” and “Black Balloon” further highlight Guster’s versatility, with the former featuring haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, while the latter exudes a sense of urgency and energy.
The album’s title track, “The Elevator”, stands out as a poignant reflection on life’s uncertainties and the passage of time. With its introspective lyrics and dreamy instrumentation, the song encapsulates the album’s overarching themes of love and longing. Closing track “Maybe We’re Alright” serves as a fitting conclusion to the album, offering a sense of optimism and acceptance amidst life’s challenges.
In comparison to Guster’s previous albums, “Ooh La La” showcases a more mature and introspective side of the band. While still retaining their signature sound, the album sees Guster exploring new sonic territories and lyrical themes, resulting in a cohesive and emotionally resonant listening experience. Fans of the band’s earlier work will appreciate the evolution displayed on this album, while newcomers will find a compelling entry point into Guster’s discography.
Overall, “Ooh La La” is a captivating and emotionally rich album that highlights Guster’s continued growth as musicians and songwriters. With its introspective lyrics, infectious melodies, and lush instrumentation, the album is a testament to the band’s enduring talent and creativity. Guster has once again delivered a collection of songs that not only entertain but also resonate on a deep emotional level, making “Ooh La La” a must-listen for fans of indie rock and heartfelt storytelling.
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