SuppliedSt. Lucia
Neon Gold Records
https://www.stlucianewyork.com/
By looking at new albums released in the last five years or so, it’s obvious that many artists recycle ideas and material. It feels as if the 2010s are lacking originality, especially as other decades seem to be defining this current one (chokers, scrunchies, crop tops, anyone?). However, this is not always a bad thing. St. Lucia’s new album, Matter, is excellent as an epitome of the 80s.
Immediately upon listening to the album, it feels as if audiences are being transported into a John Hughes film; listeners might as well be enduring detention in the library with the cast of the Breakfast Club. The heavy use of synth creates this nostalgic vibe, but the use of meaningful lyrics and electronic effects give the album a contemporary edge.
Each track on this album is very complex; they use multiple instruments to complete their sound. “Love Somebody”, in particular, uses the flute, bass, electric guitar, and drums, along with their usual keyboards and synths. This variety creates a well-rounded and versatile sound.
The amount of work that went into the making of this album is clearly demonstrated on each track; according to St. Lucia’s website, each song had approximately 200 unmixed individual audio tracks. With a similar formula, they managed to make every song unique and complex. “Dancing on Glass” is an example of this complexity, as there is so much happening in terms of music, effects, and vocals. The use of many vocal harmonies, synth, and electronic beats makes this complexity effective without being over-stimulating.
Not only is this album extremely well thought out, but it is catchy as hell and you can expect to hear it playing at every Urban Outfitters in the next few months. Beware of the incoming swarm of teens in Docs and infinity scarves jumping on the St. Lucia bandwagon.
