Matt and Kim's new album 'Sidewalks'.
With the breakout success of their second LP “Grand,” Brooklyn duo Matt & Kim finally follow up with their new full-length, “Sidewalks.”
Right off the bat, the first thing listeners may notice is the change in sound that the duo has. Say goodbye to the light piano melodies, because they’re now officially replaced with an array of synthesizers. Although “Grand” did occasionally use synths, they’re now taking the spotlight as the main instruments in “Sidewalks.”
The change in sound is both good and bad. Using their new electronic sound allows the duo to add a myriad of new textures into their music. These new layers make some very cool moments, especially in the structurally complex song “Red Paint.”
Still, it’s just not Matt & Kim without the familiar piano. Some of the more sincere music on the album, such as “Silver Tiles,” gets lost in all the noise and the melodic hooks just don’t seem to stuck in one’s head the same way that “Daylight” or “Good ol’ Fashion Nightmare” do.
Although the album is very catchy, it does begin to get redundant. Every song seems to have a very similar tempo and beat, which is more laid back than their first two albums, making the album easy to listen to, but lacking the diversity that the other two albums had.
That’s not to say that there aren’t some great moments in “Sidewalks.” The tender, melancholy “Northeast” gives the listener a pining feeling for home (although that might just be the New Jersey in me talking). And of course, it’s a little difficult to not feel cool while listening to their debut single “Cameras.”
Sidewalks may not have as much intensity as their first two albums, but Matt & Kim still know how to pack a lot of energy into a CD. Immediately from their opening track “Block After Block,” the pair plays with such vigor, it’s difficult to stay still. Drummer Kim Schifino’s beats manage to be poppy, driving and funky all at once. While listening to the vivacious sounds, it’s hard to believe that there are only two people responsible for the music.
Matt & Kim really shouldn’t be too ashamed of “Sidewalks.” Although there are some issues, the album is still a decent way to pass 35 minutes. While there isn’t anything that will attract new listeners, it is doubtful the duo will lose any either. It looks like fans are going to have to see where this sidewalk will lead Matt & Kim.
Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Matt Glassett at Matthew.glassett@colorado.edu.
1 comment
I really liked it. Sometimes change is good, and I think this is one of those times.