Shocking Pinks

The lack of recent posts on my end as of late is definately in part due to this album.  I picked up the Shocking Pinks’ self-titled a long while back with the intention of writing about it.  I listened multiple times and enjoyed each, but when it came time to put pen to paper, I couldn’t find the words.  I put it off, even wrote the Oracular Spectacular review in the meantime.  So after much deliberation, here’s my attempt.

Just to get an idea of what Shocking Pinks are all about, they’re an ex-disco/punk band that grabbed some more band members and turned lo-fi/pop with a sensitive side (practically).  Their sound is somewhere in-between Islands, Radiohead, and LCD Soundsystem.  I’m sorry, that’s horrible, I need to stop using other bands for comparisons.

Usually the most sentimental songs incorporate slow, methodical vocals with an acoustic-driven sound.  Not so for this band, most of their emotional material comes from upping the tempo and quick, wavering vocals.  Songs like “Emily” and “How am I Not Myself?” would be the best examples of this unique dramatic experience.  They have their share of acoustic escapades as well though, “End of the World” and “The Girl on the Northern Line” keep Shocking Pinks grounded in the realms of lo-fi.  “Cutout” is Shocking Pinks’ climax, full of intensity and instrumental power.  Tracks “23″ and “You Can Make Me Feel Bad” are the last endeavors of the album; they’re minimalisitic, but have the emotionally drained feeling that synchronizes well with the end of such an expressive album.  Down to it’s conclusion, the progression in this record is something truly unforgettable.

Concluding words-It’s not shocking nor pink, but it is an easy-listening and emotional album that achieves a great deal through simplicity.  Shocking Pinks forms an inexpressable bond with it’s listener, there’s nothing like it.  My favorite tracks were: “Yes! No!”, “Girl on the Northern Line”, and “Jealousy”.