American trio Faded Paper Figures provides a handful of styles and diversity on Relics that we’re not used to hearing. Some tracks have a bit of a folky feel to it, while others have a more electric synth-pop style. Ranging from subtle vibes to a bit more upbeat, Relics is a must-have record for any listener. Instead of picking out three that fit one style, we are going to run you through three that highlights their unique ability to differentiate their sound. Whether you are looking for a folky track to sing along to, or a more electric one to have a dance party with your ninjas, we has you covered!
With one of the most clever titles we’ve seen, “Not The End Of The World (Even As We Know It)” starts off smoothly. Don’t let that smooth introduction fool you though; this song builds into a rock song with lyrics that compliment the honest approach to production we can tend to miss nowadays. “Unfortunately life goes on, but it’s not the end of the world- even as we know it.” This statement alone will really hit home with a lot of people. Life gets tough at times, and what may seem like minor tasks to some become major tasks for others. No matter how hard things get you need to keep moving.
“Wake Up Dead” has a really innocent folk sound to it. The hard panning on the guitar at the start really sucked us in, and the duet style vocals really kept our attention focused. The particular patch they used on the synthesizer has a very nice analogue techno sound to it, which is a great addition in an age where electronic music is everywhere. Everything about this song has a mature feel to it. It just seems to be composed with a lot of thought and determination.
The last track we’re touching base on, before we leave you to enjoy the album in its entirety, is “Real Lies”. This one has a four to the floor drum style that a lot of us can relate to nowadays. The song has a consistent style to it, but then at the end it takes an unexpected turn. The turn isn’t anything bad, if anything that is one of the main reasons we picked this track. It goes from the house, or disco style drums, to an eastern style outro. It isn’t an abrasive change of styles whatsoever. It really transitions into the eastern vibes smoothly. Another nice part of the outro is the vocal recording used over it. “Real Lies” has a powerful message, as do all of the songs on “Relics”.
The eclectic style of this trio really shines through on this newly released album. We don’t often get an opportunity to relate to so many different messages provided on an album, but Faded Paper Figures made that rarity a possibility. Ranging in all different styles of music, this album is a must have for anyone. If you don’t agree, we strongly encourage you to listen to it from beginning to end, absorbing the meaning behind each song. We hope that it leaves you at a place of understanding in life, and you can appreciate every aspect as much as we did.
