The Nostalgic Sound of Greece

When one thinks of Greece they may think of literature, food, philosophy or the nine muses. Greece’s latest export, however, does not involve any epic odysseys or Socratic discussions.

Much like Best Coast or any other nostalgic sounding California band, Keep Shelly In Athens, the Athens, Greece based duo, can certainly hold their own when it comes to the relaxed, dreamy vibe that so many bands strive for now.

An important thing to note about this record, is that it stands alone from the other album that was released in 2013. One thing that the listener recognizes immediately and may perhaps deterred them from continuing with the album, is that this record is without the voice of Sarah P, the original lead singer. Both Myrtha and Sarah P. have a similar sound, but Myrtha’s voice seems to have a much deeper timbre, thereby making the music sound more elegiac. Additionally, the vocals are featured more on this record than a majority of the other albums or EPs.

With the new addition of Myrtha, the band has been able to produce stirring music to much approval and acclaim.

The album begins with “Fractals,” a chillpop anthem that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Their fusion of melodic 80’s sounding synth mixed with the lead singer’s voice, make for a truly wistful experience. The single “Now I’m Ready” contains the same soothing rhythms as the other songs, but has a more natural quality. By natural, it means that it begins with a beat that sounds like the thump of a heartbeat. The body then follows that rhythm and the heart and music sync up and become one gigantic pulse.

After listening to the record, the songs begin to interlace with one another, but it is a long, beautifully entwined end result that stays with the listener long after the music has ended.