CCS
Planta
Reviewed by: Lexi Bissonnette
Electronic/pop band CSS from Sao Paulo is back with their fourth album, Planta. The album has a wonderful set of lyrics, translated from Portuguese so they sound a little rough at times to the ear but beautiful in the songs. This is their first release as an all female band. The album has sounds reminiscent of early 90s pop and is filled with longer songs, but all with intriguing open notes that pull you in, good dub beats and strong electronic elements.
Most of the tracks on Planta are upbeat with a great drum beat that you can dance too. However ‘Hangout’, ‘Frankie Goes to North Hollywood’ and ‘ Faith in Love’ sound slightly darker than the other songs on the album, deeper tones and a more soulful lyrical sound to the singing. Those songs evoked a sense of darkness hiding in the light, whereas the other songs were very peppy and upbeat.
‘Hangover’ is perhaps the most interesting track on the album. With it’s interesting combination of sung and spoken lyrics the song had a distinct Spanish flare to the sound that the rest of the album did not. ‘Too Hot’ is another remarkable song on the track, forgoing some of the electronic sound for a more pop element and launching right into the lyrics as opposed to giving the listener a teaser of sounds to come.
In some regards this album is reminiscent of the pop group Spice Girls, not in tone or lyrics but more in sound. Like the popular 90s band, Planta offers intriguing lyrics with a slightly darker undertone paired with upbeat, peppy beats. A perfect combination for someone looking for a good dance album as well as one to pop in the car for a drive.
Rating: Listenable
