Beach House : Teen Dream :: Review
Beach House’s junior album “Teen Dream” is a triumphant return to the woozy and melancholy melodies by principals Victoria Legrand and Alex Scally. Their first album for Sub Pop, it sounds like Legrand and Scally were given the keys to the kingdom on this album allowing them to really deliver the goods. From the moment the album begins with the hazy, “Zebra” you’re reminded why you succumbed to Legrand’s vocals in the first place. On “Teen Dream” The songwriting and general song craft seems to be honed with laser precision by producer Chris Coady who undoubtedly got the band’s best work out of them.
Consistently hazy and world weary, “Teen Dream” captures the drama of what modern soul music should look and sound like. “Teen Dream” elucidates memories of teenage angst and love filtered through a gauzy lens. “Teen Dream” is neither nostalgic nor apologetic but accepting of the consequences and makes it’s strongest statement by being able to move on. As I’m consumed with this album, it’s hard to pick favorites amongst the tracks although standouts include “Walk In The Park,” “Lover of Mine,” and the elegiac “10 Mile Stereo.” The only gripe that I have with the album is the weakest track, “Real Love” feels more like a b-side than a fleshed out track. Complaints aside, closer “Take Care” sums up the proceedings with oceanic imagery as a lovely radiating organ line burrows itself into your soul as the waves crash about you.
Rating: 
