POW!
Hi-tech Boom
Reviewed by: Elizabeth Wagner
Castle Face Records’ indie, San Fran-based POW! released their full-length debut album today. It has a futuristic, psychedelic feel that is apparent from the opening track “GLITCH” to the end. It has this consistent style throughout the 27 minute album. Though somewhat short, the 80’s synth-bass, guitar, and funky drum beats go together with meaningful lyrics to create a decent album on paper. The finished product, however, is lacking.
The vocals are hard to understand and some songs have barely any vocals at all. To be honest, the instruments and other effects sound listenable and start off the songs in a promising way, but the vocals are way too clouded. “Switchboard Scientist” is the most listenable track in my opinion. It has decipherable lyrics and hip-swaying beats. The track “Cyber Attack!!” starts off by giving the effect of something landing on Earth. The instrumentals and effects put into this album are very enticing.
Most tracks center around the theme of the changes happening in San Francisco. ‘Hi-Tech Boom’ refers to the new movement that SF and most parts of the country are experiencing; rich people have all the power and industrialization has taken over the city. People struggle to stay afloat in these cities and can’t compete to stay living there anymore. They are said to be giving a “punk eulogy” to the city of San Francisco in their song “Hope Dealers”.
I wouldn’t say the album isn’t listenable; it has some good components and at it’s heart, a good purpose. In my opinion, I think it is more appropriate as background music than something you would jam out to in your car.
Rating: Semi-Obnoxious
