Stricken City – Losing Colour album review
When Sean is not caught daydreaming of a luxurious beachfront life in California, he can be seen saving lives in his free time - by a pool, that is! With a love for writing and music at a tender age, Sean's unique tastes in novels and music far surpassed those of his peers. Only diversified interests in big screen releases - movies of various genres, rivaled these passions. Sean's calm nature, yet quick wit, and love of impromptu comebacks allow him to easily become a part of many social circles. Those who know him best appreciate his loyalty. Academic interests and pursuits in the field of psychology round out the picture of this individual's profile!
There was quite an unconventional start to such a refined and astonishing album! At the launch concert show of their spectacular new album, Losing Colour, Stricken City announced, “We never stood a chance”. This brave and unprecedented mature decision was the last chapter in the now extinct Stricken City. Losing Colour would be the last release for the London new wave rock-pop quartet. With a career of over four years encompassing their dilettante like, but remarkable debut Songs About People I Know and the finale digital pay-what-you-can release Losing Colour.
In early February they announced the bittersweet news and played their last show. Bittersweet in the sense that Stricken City knew what they were up against all along and triumphed over their struggles until their defeat.
Losing Colour is undoubtedly distinct in relation to their debut, revealing a ripened and actively well-rounded release. Rebekah Raa’s refreshingly distinct vocals give Losing Colour the energy and poise that embraces past and future accomplishments.
Losing Colour opens up with a flourishing and surging sax, and an almost parallel tribal music feel. Until Raa’s distinct conquering vocals break through the instrumentation to suck the listener into the addicting “Some Say.” With her melodic verses and undeniably memorable chorus, which conjure up comparisons to the likes of Lykke Li.
Blondie and Blur can be seen as influences in the single “Animal Festival,” where Raa’s unique vocal stylings meet pop sensitivity. “PTHD Skellington remix” should not be neglected, as it serves as the halfway point switching up the tide of the album, courtesy of their “Pulling The House Down” track from Songs About People I Know.
The coincidently titled nostalgic single, “Losing Colour” proclaims that we are not alone in our adventures in life. “Losing Colour” is engulfed with adroit foggy guitar rhythms, soothing soft songstress vocals and drums with conquering violins. All produce an alluring simplistic regret and wistful last act, in which the drums become the only existence, until they lose their colour.
Stricken City can proudly stand next to the indie greats, surpassing a thrill of acts today. So, why stop now? Well, it is hard to begin to enjoy or become a fan of a band that has already seen their end.
Stricken City undeniably deserves posthumous praise for their elite contribution to indie music, whether or not the group wants it. “We never stood a chance” – but it wasn’t like they didn’t stand a chance! Perhaps one day they will realize the persistent charismatic talent they possess and reconsider… However, for the time being, only time will tell!
Tags: Losing Colour, lykke li, Rebekah Raa, Reviews, Songs About People I Know, Stricken City, Stricken City - Losing Colour album review
