AWOLNATION- “CANDYPOP” EP REVIEW
AWOLNATION is back with their brand new ep Candypop. The alternative rock band from Los Angeles, California has stated that the lead single “Candypop” “epitomizes the seductive nature of pop music and pop culture, while pointing out the absurdity of it all at once.” (Broadway World).
“Candypop,” the first track and leading single off this EP, is a great energetic start to this collection of songs. The pre-choruses are extremely catchy, and have a sort of talkative aspect to them, and create a great transition into the chorus, which is sung in more of a head-voice. The contrasting vocals blend really well together, and this song alone shows a great range of capability from the band and vocalist.
“We Are All Insane” comes in at track two with a stripped down electric guitar introduction, which seamlessly goes into a more techno-sounding piano. I really enjoy the isolated verses, in combination to the echoes in the background. It matches the tone of the song, and the lyrics as well, creating an eerie sound. That being said, it takes us into a strong and abrupt chorus, juxtaposing the verse itself. It not only pleasantly surprised me, but impressed me as well.
Track three is titled “Freaking Me Out”, and is a nice change into something that starts more upbeat. The sound of this one is more of a pop-techno feel, which is a really cool shift from the two previous songs. It transitions into the chorus, where drums and guitar are brought in, and again, I am impressed by this combination that’s going on here, with the seamless mixture of genres. This one was definitely a stand out for me. Something I enjoy in a song if it is done right is a tempo change. The verses here are more upbeat, and transition into a slower, heavier chorus while still keeping the elements that constructed the preceding verses.
The last two tracks are remixes, and they are both from the first song on the EP, “Candypop.” The first one was made in collaboration with dance and electronic musical artist Flamingosis, who “splices together old school soul, wild funk, and D.I.Y. electronic with a radiant message meant for any moment.” The remix itself is exactly that. It’s slowed down and reverberated, which is an interesting switch from the original. The second remix, made in collaboration with Elohim, electropop recording artist and DJ, and it’s another massive shift in tone as well. Admittedly, I find it impressive that this one song was transformed into three different versions, all with their own unique and respective sounds. While also being slowed down at points, this remix has intense beat drops with heavy bass.
Candypop is an incredibly solid EP through and through. These five tracks all have their own unique and respective sounds, while keeping the tone that AWOLNATION has crafted through their music. This EP is available on all streaming platforms now!
