SPC ECO - The Art of Pop [2014] (256kbps/iTunes) (electronic/shoegaze) *rykker*

On November 2, 2014, former Curve member, Dean Garcia, and his daughter, Rose Berlin of SPC ECO (pronounced Space Echo), released their sixth album together, The Art of Pop. The pair has been playing together since Berlin was six, and have been met with much success. Garcia and Berlin’s music has been featured in many films, including Coraline and the upcoming, A Long Way Down. Their particular brand of shoegaze seems to appeal to a variety of audiences, and with The Art of Pop, it’s easy to see why.

With such a bold title as The Art of Pop, one might expect bubblegum, hook-laden songs, boiling over with charm. SPC ECO’s take on pop is much quieter, and Berlin’s sweet, light voice, coupled with the artful, dark electronics, makes this album unique, overflowing with subtle, gossamer tunes.

The first track, “Burn Me Down,” opens with rising and falling electronic bleeps, which are soon joined by Berlin’s sweet, but melancholy voice. Her voice hypnotizes the listener instantly, creating a dark, dreamy web around them that holds throughout the album. “Hear Me Now” takes a darker turn with a beat that’s more heavy-handed. The contrast between the beat and Berlin’s breathy, innocent voice is oddly sensual, and makes the track a standout on the album.

“One for the Little One” also capitalizes on the contrast between Berlin’s vulnerable voice and darker electronic instrumentals. Things pick up on “Right Mind,” with brighter beats and electronic sounds. The reverb of Berlin’s voice makes the track extra haunting, fitting the lyrics about doubt and love perfectly. “Fall Apart for Love” is a more typical pop song and is more obviously danceable than the earlier tracks.

The brightness of “Right Mind” returns on “Ray of Sun,” which is a perfect name for this hopeful, yet vulnerable song. The vulnerability remains on “Fuck You,” despite its confrontational name, and the electronics in the background are spun sugar. “Lights and Stars” follows this track with a more orchestral sound and brings to mind the image of a rising sun. “Die Alone” and “Full Flow” bring the album to a satisfying end, though the listener is definitely left wanting more of SPC ECO’s beauty.

The Art of Pop is a truly beautiful album, full of delicious contrasts that surprise and intrigue. Once the first track starts playing, you’ll find it difficult to tear yourself away from the band’s sugary, spidery music. - Shayna Parr (InYourSpeakers)