Not Dreaming, But Sleeping.
Ballet School is one of those groups that make it really difficult to navigate the internet. The bands’ new album, The Dew Lasts An Hour, is another version of the ethereal and electropop mashup that seems to be popular with other groups. Upon first listen, the trio has a sound similar to that of Phantogram or Kitten with the vocals of a singer like LP or Britney Spears (with the most perfect pitch-altering equipment, of course).
There’s an 80s vibe to their sound that’s just short of EDM. That being said, the band doesn’t ever carve out their own sound with this album. One of the first singles, “Heartbeat Overdrive,” is mostly safe-sounding: a simple syncopated beat with a light guitar on it. The lyrics aren’t the easiest to decipher with the vocals, but that vocal style is the only way to distinguish the group from others.
“LUX” carries on this ethereal, dreamy vibe that is missing something in its repetitive lyrics and vocal lines. It’s one of the catchier songs, and has a chillness to it that is nice, but it’s one of those super-relaxed songs that you get bored with very quickly.
Not all the tracks on here are worth skipping. There are a few songs on the album that prove Ballet School does have something to them. “Ghost” is easily one of the catchiest songs on this album. This is where lead singer Rosie shines. Her voice goes from low and slightly husky to lighter and on the other side of her range with ease. This track is what can make Ballet School’s signature sound that would fit in any John Hughes movie. “Yaoi” also gets honorable mention and is worth a listen.
These characteristics also work in a slower-tempoed track. “Heliconia” gives the same vocal and musical versatility of “Ghost” with the dream-like feel without coming off as repetitive and boring.
While Ballet School shows promise, half the tracks are just missing something to keep them on the right side of “not boring.” It’s the same thing over and over that should be dream-like, but will ultimately just put you to sleep. A handful of songs are worth a listen, and prove the band has potential in future material.
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