Review: Neon Trees - Pop Psychology
[Island; 2014]
Rating: 9/10
By Ethan Forness, Contributor
Key Tracks: “Text Me in the Morning,” “Sleeping With a Friend,” “Unavoidable”
A new wave fusion of indie and pop music that Top 40 charts love, consistently good music and powerful vocals? Must be a new Neon Trees album. It’s 2014 and even though Neon Trees are a relatively young group they seem to be improving all the time. Pop Psychology, their newest effort and third album in four years, is a much more polished and perfected sound than we’ve heard in the past. Each song is just as enjoyable as the last.
Tyler Glenn, though somewhat dialed down compared to past works, showcases his smooth and moving vocals while displaying the mellow side of his talents. Pop Psychology delves into the themes of dating and love in modern times and it’s apparent with the aptly named first track, “Love in the 21st Century.” Paired with tracks like “Text Me in the Morning” and “Sleeping With a Friend,” it’s easy to keep tabs on this theme throughout the album.
Content aside, let’s get back to the improved sound. All 10 tracks have a rough similarity, and yet they’re all unique. There’s a certain familiarity to Pop Psychology as Neon Trees have built off their success of past smash hits like “Animal,” “Everybody Talks” and “1983.” The success of their past two albums have culminated into the refined sound we hear now, a more laid-back, yet danceable tracklist.
Pop Psychology pulls a change of pace after “I Love You (But I Hate Your Friends)” and slows down with “Unavoidable.” The song starts with a dance party backbeat, but quickly develops into a melodic duet between vocalist Tyler Glenn and drummer Elaine Bradley, who balance each other very well. Next up is “Voices in the Halls,” featuring a conceptual 1980s sound that comes off as slightly repetitive, but showcases Tyler Glenn’s crisp and clear voice.
Picking up steam and dipping back into the themes of modern romance on Pop Psychology, Neon Trees follow up “Voices in the Halls” with “Foolish Behaviour,” “Living in Another World” and “First Things First” to round out the album. Every song is capable of radio airtime and anyone who listens to the radio regularly should expect to hear plenty of Neon Trees in the near future.
“Four chords and a beat keep me alive,” huh? Well be that as it may, Neon Trees have perfected their sound and Pop Psychology will be discussed for quite some time. There really isn’t anything to dislike about this album. Everyone can enjoy Pop Psychology, from the pickiest of music buffs to easy-to-please fans, and it fits just about any mood. Kudos, Neon Trees.
