Despondent – Change
Genre: Lo-fi Rock, Indie Rock, Alternative Rock
Art can be made by anyone and, through the magic of the internet, just about anyone in the world could get to witness it. That may not seem like a lot. But, it’s pure, honest, and a refreshing change from the way in which we’re fed our culture.
I ain’t no snob and I’m the first to admit that I listen to classic rock music, watch Hollywood movies, and even change some of my political opinions according to public pressure. But, even as I stare in amazement at the latest blockbuster, I have to ask myself how many people had to make a calculated decision to get me to spend my $30 on a ticket. Think of all that marketing hype, the people on hand to move things around, the actors. What a helluva machine!
Despondent’s Change encapsulates some of the very best elements of indie, lo-fi music. This is a lovely, yet cynical kind of guitar lullaby. But, underneath the slim production layer, there’s something that announces the band’s enthusiasm. It’s the glee of a band getting to hear themselves recorded which for many fans of pop-rock would be enough of a reward. Despondent sound good. Not like a stadium-rock act, but not like a group that has to answer to an army of managers and lawyers either.
PAIR – THE EMPEROR’S HEART
Genre: Indie Electronic, Indietronica, Indie Pop
Maybe it’s just that we expect too much from our rock stars. Perhaps we need to blame it on having put the likes of Dylan, Lennon, or Marley on pedestals that not even ancient prophets get to climb on top off. Or, maybe we music junkies get carried away and are easily seduced.
After all, at its core, seduction is the very scope of an artist. Or, at least it used to be. Artists used to travel from town to town. They would stop wherever they were allowed, spin their tale, cast their magic, and leave with the gold of those willing to pay attention to them. Some of the means of promotion have changed, sure, but the gig is basically the same.
Germany’s PAIR are content to try and break a few hearts on their latest single. Indeed, The Emperor’s heart sounds like music by confident people who get enjoyment out of offering their public just enough amount of sugar. It’s hard to find these sorts of artists these days. Still, easy to get lost in the lure of PAIR’s pretty, and mildly intoxicating lines. Romance isn’t for everyone, but that isn’t stopping some artists from traveling from town to town.
