Secret Cameras have been described as a synth pop entity. I would argue there’s a lot more than that to this band, but when crafting those pesky PR emails it can be daunting to throw a mouthful of terms at the media.

Shout out to the band’s manager for being persistent – this band’s sound is at once familiar and unique and I’m glad I took the time to listen.

The self-titled EP draws from a mood that suits my post-SXSW mood well. I spent 5 1/2 days absorbing lots of the dry Texas warmth and more bands than you can shake a stick at. There was an ethereal excitement that kind of permeated the event, a feeling similar to the one that dominates this EP.

Though one mood permeates the release, several underly the listening experience. The opening track is the closest we get to an all out rocker, for example. Rather than a straightforward soaring guitar riff in the chorus, we get some added production that creates a lo-fi effect. It’s a little counterintuitive. On the other end of the spectrum we have the song “It’s Never Over” which emphasizes an electronic beat underneath a surreal melody. It’s the sort of song that both comforting and reminiscent of fantastical realm.

I also find the vocals to be unique. Secret Cameras bring to the table a bass tone slightly reminiscent of The National. Not everyone will be into this – I have friends who in the past have thought this vocal style to be a mismatch for dream pop. It’s an acquired taste for sure. I’m also reminded of the short-lived dream pop project Cadets. As I listen I have this mental image of the drummer seated behind a minimal kit, whole body bobbing in time while psychedelic visuals dance on a backdrop behind the band.

This London project is something I hope to see live I’m abroad anytime soon. Or, they can come to the states and play one of our shows. Selfishly I hope it is the latter. But in any case, I’ll be listening to this triumphant and mysterious EP for a long while.

Score: 3.9/5

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