LogFAQs > #890342528

Lights - The Listening

Speaking of people who used the same artists they did for the title track topic are you the one that made me listen to Siberia? Although that track didnt win, its by far the album Ive played the most since finishing that topic, and Ive been following Lights ever since. Ive always been really impressed with vocalists that produce their own music, and for some reason Im even more impressed when its a woman that does both like Grimes or... Lights. Maybe its a Canadian thing. I remember Drive My Soul being a pretty big hit when it was released, but I thought it was just generic electronica at the time, since I was really into trance and was a bit of an elitist jerk when it came to any other electronic genre. Listening to this and her other albums now, its actually kind of crazy the ear she has for melody. Her production style isnt as complex as many others in EDM genres, but its amazing how well the production fits her vocals, throughout her album history.

Its actually kind of odd since this is her debut album, yet its the one Im listening to last. I can definitely see how her production and songwriting skills have improved since 2009, but I cant deny that Im incredibly impressed with how polished this sounds for a debut. Ive always loved how genuine her lyrics were, especially compared to others in the genre, and its surprising that they were this good back then as well. Sitting smack dab in the middle is Pretend, and despite how understated the beat is, it works wonderfully as the albums centerpiece. The lyrics are just dripping with nostalgia, reminiscent of Running with the Boys on Little Machines. Its a song that really shows off her vocals and lyrical skill, and I just love when electronic artists have the confidence to strip things down rather than letting bombastic beats distract from their... shortcomings. The best part is that she takes it a step further and brings it back to close the album with a reprise of the same track, and its fucking acoustic. The closing version that simply features Lights and a piano is quite easily my favourite song on the album, which is saying something because Im really not an acoustic, piano guy.

The rest of the album is great too, not a single track Id skip but Im totally enamored with Pretend right now. Its really made me realize how talented she is, and I think Im finally going to have to listen to her acoustic records now. While I havent made it all the way through Skin & Earth yet, shes at least 3/3 on albums Ive heard, and thats kind of a big deal. All I want to do is listen to more of her albums right now which is a great state to be in as I get to review her newest tomorrow. Overall great record, thanks for the rec.

Final Rating: Im Listening/10
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http://soundcloud.com/thundersheep/these-beautiful-nightmares