Sleeptalk – Young (Album Review)

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Based out of Southern California, Sleeptalk is a band who break the mold of their own expectations in a desire to explore a new musical direction. During their search for something fresh, they found themselves with an Indie Synthpop stratosphere similar to that of The 1975 while mixing in a throwback sound of Yellowcard or The Starting Line. A unique blend all on its own, those completely confused on what this all means, imagine calling this hybrid Space Rock. Throw in a new lyricism, Anthony Fitzpatrick (vocals), Jason Fitzpatrick (guitar), Justin Melchor (guitar), Paul McGill (bass), and Jacques Harmandjian (drums) have banded together to make strong, haunting hooks, that blend with atmospheric melodies. Now, as of December 4th, the quintet released their second EP of a planned trilogy, entitled Young. A continuation of their Pure EP, Sleeptalk are a compelling entity worthy of any fan of atmospheric and melodic Rock.

Opening with “Phenomenon,” it is a short, yet spectacular start to the five song EP. It prepares the audience in the less than two minute span, for what they can expect of the rest. Fitzpatrick’s vocals, mixed with the simple plucking of guitar strings that grows into a strong chorus of the powerful drum beat and faster paced guitar is exhilarating and spreads a feeling of happiness through a listener. The title song of the EP, “Young,” helps flow the happiness from the previous song. It is the kind of song that one can have playing in a slow-mo montage of a fun house party. It is also the song where the similarity to The 1975 can start to be heard with its quick, but simple high tone guitar picking, and the playing around with sampling.

“Bones” slows the pace while the lyrics have a darkness that mimics the beat. Although it is somber, it still makes one want to bounce to the trippy sound. Then there is “Drowned Out,” which continues with the relaxing sound and lyrics but progresses back into the faster tempo to help bring up one into the final song of the EP, “Drift Away.” A fitting name for a final track, it has one of the more complex sounds on this EP with the synthesized keyboard, sampling, and drum beat. The lyrics also help add complexity with how they use them with the sampling.

These guys have a sound that can cover several genres and make a great name for themselves. The mix of early 2000s vocals that Fitzpatrick brings, with the New Wave of Trance and trip-like beats was a combo that was unexpected and surprisingly awesome. Those unfamiliar with Sleeptalk, prepare to be impressed. CrypticRock gives Young 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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