Teamwork pays off

Don’t be fooled by the self-titled album; the members of ShadowParty are not new to the scene. The four bandmates include Josh Hager and Jeff Friedl of Devo and Tom Chapman and Phil Cunningham of New Order. Not only do these four form a supergroup, but they decided to run with the collaborative theme and build an extensive guest list to be featured on the album. Collaborators include Nick McCabe (guitarist of The Verve) and Denise Johnson who lends her vocals to six of the album’s tracks. Whitney Fierce, a Los Angeles-based DJ, is featured on backing vocals, and arranger Joe Duddell also join the team. With all of these artists of diverse musical experiences and talents coming together on this album, ShadowParty is not just a cross between New Order and Devo. It is entirely its own creation—earning its own unique spot in the music world.

The album starts on a fun note with “Celebrate,” an electric synth-rock track that perfectly encapsulates ShadowParty’s energetic sound. The repeated line, “We got a reason to celebrate,” leaves something to be desired in the song’s lyrics. However, “Celebrate” doesn’t exist to be complex; it exists to be a fun track, and it’s successful. The upbeat energy trails through the next few tracks, solidifying the band’s spunky sound. The synth is then toned down on “Marigold,” but the album’s vibe still holds strong through the ethereal song.

“Present Tense” stands out as a groovy dance tune—one of the most danceable tunes on the album. Johnson’s clear and sassy voice chants somber lines like, “Everything must come to past / The present tense not made to last / Funny how life can turn your world around,” as the accompanying disco-infused tune jumps around.

The excitement and electronic sound come to a complete halt on the slow and solemn “Even So.” The track is undoubtedly rock, full of explosive guitar and reverb, but its eeriness makes it stand out amongst the lush collection of electronic anthems. Hauntingly graceful strings and Chapman’s echoing vocals shine through the pounding drums. This all traps the listener in a whirlwind of dynamic, echoing noises, engulfed in the emotion of this track.

The energy resumes on “Truth,” which gives off a gospel and orchestral atmosphere. The vibe is contagious and overflowing on the track, spilling over to the next. Much like its title, “Vowel Movement” is a bubbly and witty tune, full of attitude. The album’s closer, “The Valley,” begins with a haunting instrumental intro before soft vocals float in. The song builds and builds to an eventual synth rock explosion.

With their debut album, ShadowParty doesn’t just cross the bridge between synth-pop and rock, but they fortify it. Not only is the band already a unique combination of experienced artists, but the featured artists help make ShadowParty a successful musical melting pot.