Daydream Frenzy’s new release ‘Ocean Air’ is short and sweet. Although the first two songs alone are good enough to pop on repeat for a few listens, there’s a potential here for the band to create something really great. With an understated charm and a clear knack for a good hook, the trio from Aberdeen are just one or two solid choruses away from the radio plays and festival spots of their peers, and their chilled out alternative vibes are ideal for lazy summer days.
It’s difficult not to just listen to opener ‘Shout’ over and over again. For a chorus with such a seemingly powerful message, it doesn’t ascend into a loud, determined anthem. Instead, singer Donald Barclay keeps the same tone and volume as the verse, giving the impression of defeatism and realism in lyrics that seem positive at face value.
“Shout as loud as you can, shout more than they’ll let you” they sing, but they don’t seem to be taking their own advice. Powerful vocals aren’t needed though: the soft, alternative rock may be quiet but it works in its favour and what we’re left with is an accessible, memorable ballad that fans of anything from indie to emo will enjoy. The second edit of ‘Shout’ that’s also included is significantly shorter than its original and it sounds great too, but it’s not any more emotional as you might expect from an acoustic version.
‘On My Own’ does the reverse of the first track, taking on a different quality, but the juxtaposition between lyrics and melody continues. Its upbeat melody sounds fairly optimistic for a song about the demise of a relationship: a dreamy pop rock track with unobtrusive drums, simple, repeating chords and a quiet bassline layered with soaring guitars. There are hints of early noughties pop punk in the verses and an unmistakeable likeness to Jimmy Eat World in the chorus.
Sounding like another band altogether, ‘Good Morning’ almost tries harder to be a bigger hit than the other songs, but isn’t actually as good. The rockiest track on the EP, it’s by no means heavy in any way whatsoever; just think louder, more deliberate chords, angrier lyrics, and a powerful, instrumental middle section There are grittier, edgier moments but it’s still in the vein of user-friendly pop rock.
‘Pride & Wonder (Fonik Remix)’ – nope, we don’t know who that is either – is a must listen for anyone who likes an alternative song dance edit. Taking the title track of last 2015’s 8 song release from a squeaky clean pop rock singalong to a dance number influenced by house synths, subtle licks and repetitive electronics. It’s not bad, but it doesn’t have the fun, rock band charm of the original.
Daydream Frenzy haven’t quite found their stride yet but there’s a huge potential for success given their sound. The warm, refined alternative tracks invoke an intangible nostalgia and, alongside their existing pop rock songs, they’re slowly building a back catalogue to take on a far wider audience.
KATHRYN BLACK