Often times when one hears “indie music,” he or she thinks of unpolished and horribly mastered music, recorded in mom’s basement with sub-par equipment, performed by kids who are trying too hard. Scarlet Youth are as far away from this description as it is possible to be. Converging in 2007, this self-described “shoegaze” quintet from Helsinki, Finland brings wonderfully fantastic feelings to us with their new album, The Everchanging View.
The composition of the album as a whole is impressive, as it truly flows from song to song as one complete work of its own. Each song relies pretty heavily on the use of synth to drive the melody, creating an ethereal sound that leaves a lasting impression. They have created a sound that is uniquely their own; each component of the songs works together in a painstakingly calculated dance. The percussion is not heavy, which gives the melodic bass line and soothing vocals the chance to shine. In mainstream music, we are often familiar with heavy vocals trying to compete with obnoxious guitars and drums. Such is not the case with The Everchanging View. Throughout the album, each component of the band is showcased with beautifully written melody and harmony.
It is easy to see why Scarlet Youth lists The Cure, Sigur Rós, and The Smashing Pumpkins as influences on their MySpace page, but the sound they have concocted truly takes the best of these artists and turns it into something I have never heard before. I could listen to this album on repeat and never get tired of it. The Everchanging View is a very personal soundtrack to relationships and love, starting with “You and Me” and ending with “Someday I’ll Be Fine Again.” My only complaint is that the album is only nine songs long, and when it’s over I’m left wishing there was more.
All in all, Scarlet Youth is an artist to listen for, as their talent is plentiful. Within the first ten seconds of “You and Me,” I had fallen in love with the vibrant, happy, and at the same time melancholic sound of the arrangement. Each song strikes a chord in my heart, as most people have felt the emotions conveyed throughout The Everchanging View. This album can leave one feeling relaxed, calm, introspective, and even a bit nostalgic. Being their 2nd full length album release, I am eager to see what Scarlet Youth brings us in the future.
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Album Name: The Everchanging View
Date Released: January 2013
Genre(s): Shoegaze, dream pop
Location: Helsinki, Finland
Band Members: Markus Baltes – Vocals, Kalle Pyyhtinen – Guitars & Synths, Marko Soukka – Guitars, Riku H. Mattila – Bass, Jaani Peuhu – Drums & Percussion
Website: www.scarletyouth.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/scarletyouth
