|
 After
listening to the ten tracks of effervescent pop that makes up the debut
album from Iglu & Hartly, it becomes rather difficult to fathom
exactly what the LA outfit are actually supposed to be.
Sounding for the most part like Eminem waxing lyrical over German
synth-pop, it’s never quite clear if the band are supposed to the second
coming of the Beastie Boys or tribute act to Goldie Looking Chain.
And though it’s probably the former that Iglu & Hartly had in mind when
they embarked on this disco-pounding powerhouse of pop, it’s not always
apparent that they want to be taken seriously. OK, so there’s not much
in the way of obvious humour or knowing irony, but even so, you can’t
help but smile a little when listening to the bands simple, sonic
ditties.
Then again, maybe such smiles are simply a product of genuinely
enjoyable music.
For all the curious blend of influences that make up this spectacularly
different disc, there are some darn catchy tunes to be found.
Take Violent and Young, which gets underway with a sharp synth
intro reminiscent of the soundtrack to some ‘80s sci-fi film before
bouncing into breezy, animated wave of dance-pop that’s part Kraftwerk,
part Kim Wilde, but also wholly unique.
Or how about the slower, surreal stylings of Whatever We Like.
Easily a potential hit single, this sublime slice of floor-filling
splendour, it’s a sure call to arms for those inclined to rock
nightclubs with jagged shapes.
Speaking of singles; recent release In This City, with its
oriental flavour, gentle guitar and memorable chorus is a definite
highlight on an album filled with potential hits.
Infinitely better than an initial listen would suggest, And Then
Boom certainly deserves repeated listens. Even then, you may not
fully understand what Iglu & Hartly are supposed to be, we can almost
guarantee you’ll enjoy them.
• Iglu & Hartly release ‘And Then Boom’ on September 22nd through
Mercury Records.
In a Nutshell: A strange, somewhat surreal blend of rap and
synth-pop like nothing else we’ve heard in a very long time.
You might like this if you enjoy: Listening to music that’s
completely different from all that’s currently polluting the charts
whilst retaining enough catchiness and pop sensibility.
Recommended links:
►
www.igluandhartly.com
►
www.myspace.com/igluandhartly
►
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