The Brooklyn-based indie-pop duo Asobi Seksu have once again taken noise and creatively constructed it into transient music. With an emphasis on opaque vocals, heavy guitar chords, and layered synthesized harmonies, Fluorescence sounds like a dream. However, while the album is a valley of sounds, the majority of the tracks blend together with little distinction between them, almost as if Chikudate and Hanna are aimlessly wandering through their composition. As musical veterans, one would and should expect more from a band of their caliber.
Chikudate’s lead vocals assist in the creation of its breezy and dream-like atmosphere. Her signature indistinguishable lyrics continue to be fused with poppy instrumentation. However, the track “Counterglow” gives listeners a break from the hazy sound she creates and instead showcases Hanna’s voice. His deeper crooning swirls over flowing keyboard notes and creates a fresh sound. This is a welcomed change. Perhaps the best track on the album is “Trance Out” — its energetic and engaging sound is driven by fast percussion and delightful guitar chords.
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With the nostalgia of a summer day and whimsical romantic melodies, Fluorescence further demonstrates Asobi Seksu’s myriad influences. Sadly, many of the tracks are riddled with reverb and monotony, leaving the listener longing for more innovation. While it may not be their strongest piece of work, the album does have some redeeming factors and fans shouldn’t write it off completely.
(Polyvinyl Records, 206 N. Randolph St., Suite M100, Champaign, IL 61820)