Dreaming in Dualities
The name Dreamers of the Ghetto manages to elicit feelings of hope juxtaposed with darker feelings of despair – a dichotomy that plays out on the group’s debut album, Enemy/Lover.
Alternately chipper and upbeat, slinky and dark, the album makes heavy use of soaring atmospheric rhythms meshed with light pop rock. Instrumental tracks such as album opener “Antenna” and “Crime Scene” are reminiscent of Air’s earlier albums in their celestial sound. Their more traditional tracks illicit comparisons to some interesting science experiment combining the vocals of both Bono and Sting – a very noticeable dimension takes over their songs when vocals are added. Despite the sudden brashness of vocals, tracks such as “Phone Call” and “Dark Falcons” make marvelous use of synth and continue what Dreamers of the Ghetto do best – create ethereal vibe music that gives one the distinct feeling of floating.
Enemy/Lover is a welcome debut from a band with obvious potential. The only detriment to the album is that it lacks a feeling of completeness. Each song builds anticipation for a resolution that doesn’t come. It is almost as if the two sides to their music, the atmosphere and the pop, are battling for attention. Regardless, their harmonies provide music that makes you feel as though you are melting into your couch.
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