The highly dance-able pop rock jams of Phantogram are back. The Brooklyn duo return with their second long player, Voices. It’s a continuation of their self-proclaimed “street beat” style, wherein tough beats and samples are given a soft emotive touch courtesy of the melodic guitar and airy synth work. This time around Sarah Barthel’s vocals are given more of the spotlight, or perhaps she’s gained some confidence over the years. Josh Carter gets sometime behind the mic as well, but it’s the duo’s production that stands out the most. They sound more self assured than on previous releases, at ease in the studio. It’s no wonder that the duo has suddenly turned up in commercials and on high-profile movie soundtracks. Their music seems to be everywhere at the moment. High quality 2LP, spins at 45 rpm.
- music label: Republic Records 2014