Teen Dream by Beach House
Beach House's sound will always be considered "Dream Pop" because of the floating, imagery-induced feel to it. It can be mellow, yet speak volumes at the same time. And it never fails to satisfy those looking for good "Dream Pop". With their first two albums Beach House established this distinct ghostliness that envelopes both the music and the lyrics they create. However, with Teen Dream they perfect it. Teen Dream is much more open to influence then their first two albums, but they simply do not sway from the patent Beach House "Dream Pop".
Teen Dream starts off with a trio of sensational tracks - "Zebra", "Silver Soul", and the transcending "Norway". "Norway" will be a clear-cut contender for song of the year and it is only January! It's opening "a-ha-ha's" and its intricate triplets are only the basis of this surreal track that is somber in feeling at its best moment. I could take this song note by note, lyric by lyric and describe my every feeling, but that would take forever. If you listen to one song in the next month or so, let it be "Norway". The album steadily gets better, but more gloomy as it continues. After a lonely, but beautiful "Walk In The Park" follows "Used To Be" (the same single that they released in 2008), "Lover of Mine", and "Better Times". Then the album gets real in its final three tracks. "10 Mile Stereo" subtly reminds me of "Blue Ridge Mountains" by Fleet Foxes, but with a deliberate build that is affirmed in the gorgeous climax late in the song. It can only be described as one word, that I have yet to use in any Review Session so far, perfect. The next track "Real Love" is a woebegone track that shows of the vocals of Beach House's lead singer, Victoria Legrand. And to end the album a lovely parting song entitled "Take Care". A song that rightfully ends an album filled with pain, sorrow, heartbreak, and somewhat of a rebirth.
Teen Dream will be similar to Animal Collective's Merriweather Post Pavillon as it is a remarkable album released so early in the year. It will certainly be remembered by many of the critics throughout the year, and should receive much recognition in the coming weeks with its release. Beach House have certainly put together a complete album from head to toe, and they should be satisfied in what they have accomplished with Teen Dream. It is a momentous album that carries its weight on its shoulders only to unload all its weight on the listener when the journey comes to an end. The only thing left to do with this album is to close your eyes and create visions to your own Teen Dream.
Rating = 9.7
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