Review: Chairlift's Something

Friday, 10 February 2012 16:58

The combination of sultry vocals, melodic lines and the dynamic use of instrumentation make for masterful songwriting in Brooklyn-based Chairlift’s sophomore LP Something, released in January.

The indie-pop band (now a duo following Aaron Pfenning’s departure), consists of singer/synth-player/songwriter Caroline Polacheck and producer/bassist Patrick Wimberly. They both graduated Williamsburg with the intent on making “live music for haunted houses.”
On Something, Chairlift’s true major-label debut with Columbia Records, the duo’s remarkable way of phrasing words layered on top of ‘80s beats makes for a truly exciting arrangement.

The lyrics on their first single “Amanaemonesia” reach undeniably goofy heights (“Is it amnesia/Amanaemonesia/Mistaken for magic”), while “Bruises” celebrates grass stains and frozen strawberries. Both are accompanied by quirky music videos, too.

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Standout tracks where Caroline really emphasizes her sultry vocals are “Guilty as Charged” and “Take It Out On Me.” On the former she breaks out in her best lounge-act whisper against a psychedelic backdrop as she croons “I’m guilty as charged / Go on and punish me.” On the latter she showcases her extensive vocal range, jumping several octaves seamlessly between the bridge and chorus.

Chairlift’s sophomore LP has undeniable magic ability, including songs you can find at an indie club and songs you can listen to after a long day of working in corporate America.

By Jolie Shapiro

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