A bright and optimistic collection

Bedroom pop and indie-folk beautifully mix to create a dream-like ambiance on Fetch Tiger’s debut EP, Preparation to Pretend. Released on February 25, 2022, this indie duo showcases their sound and writing abilities through impressive lyricism and optimistic instrumentation on this six-track EP.

The first track “Clementine” begins with bells and light vocals. This song is cheery with bright synthesizers, soft bells and uplifting lyrics. Laidback and relaxed, Fetch Tiger sings with summery imagery referencing citrus fruits, the sun and love. As the song progresses, horns, drums, bass and floating electric guitar add depth while maintaining a buoyant energy. “Clementine” maintains a relaxed mood that will remind the listener of a bright summer’s day. 

The second track “All I’m Really After” utilizes a similar uplifting sound. Using many of the same instruments as the previous song, they modify their signature sound to include a twist of ’80s pop. Fetch Tiger sings with love, and the accompaniment matches the album’s ambiance with bright synthesizers and catchy guitar riffs. The lyrics explore feelings of infatuation and chasing after that sole desire of their affection.

The third song “Moving in” is not as bright and optimistic as the previous two tracks. The lyrics are about moving in and the fears that come along with it. Those fears are communicated through the lyrics and the anxious tone presented in the vocals. The music on this track is also not as bright. While they maintain the retro indie-pop sound, the synthesizer is much darker and the guitar riffs are slower and deeper. It creates a worried tone that effectively conveys the sentiment behind the lyrics. 

The fourth track “More Clout” takes an indie-folk sound with acoustic guitar and gentle vocals. The accompaniment is mostly guitar and hollow drums that are used to create a more natural sound. As the song continues, piano and electric guitar join in, but they sit in the back as the acoustic guitar and vocals take front and center. This track contains visions of natural imagery, perpetuating the folk-indie vibe and displaying the versatility of their sound. 

The final track “Peter” brings the album full circle by using a sound similar to the first few tracks. They use bright synthesizers, catchy guitar riffs and rhythmic guitars to create a fully optimistic, dreamlike ’80s pop-inspired sound. The lyrics are a dialogue between two people telling the story of a relationship.

Fetch Tiger’s EP Preparation to Pretend showcases their varied production styles and writing abilities through different sounds, instruments and lyrics. Audiences interested in an atmospheric, indie-pop escape will enjoy listening through the real-life emotions presented on this album.