Beacon
Kitsuné, Sept. 3, 2012.
Sounds like: Bombay Bicycle Club, Foster the People, Passion Pit
TDCC’s latest release, sophomore Beacon, has not come as a surprise to the Northern Ireland trio’s fans. The catchy melodies and upbeat rhythm of Tourist History (2010) have been re-issued, with a more melancholy touch. The indie-rock/electro-pop sound that has made the band super-popular between gig/festival goers (see bellow, Paradiso sold-out) has secured them a lengthy tour throughout the United States and Europe.
As catchy as Beacon might be, however, it does give out a feeling of being ‘part two’ to Tourist History. The element of surprise is lacking and little evident progress has been made in the lads’ style of composing. Similar patterns have been re-used in their second attempt. The songs start-off slow enough, with a predictable explosion of synth, guitar, bass and drums following within the first minute.
What has changed are the quirky lyrics the boys have spoiled us with, “You would look a little better don't you know if you just wore less make-up” (Eat That Up, It’s Good For You). There seems to be a theme of homesickness and distance separating lovers in the new album; “Where do we start if we will end apart?” (Someday), “Though I'm far away I know I'll stay, I know I'll stay right there with you” (Sun), “Shut your eyes, so you see I'm there” (Handshake). This melancholy is reflected in the melodies, making a very pleasant combination with the upbeat guitar riffs.
Beacon has gloriously succeeded in not becoming a second-album flop, now only time can tell whether it’s a strong enough follow-up for Tourist History.
Two Door Cinema Club will be performing in Paradiso on November 17th 2012 (sold out) and in the Heineken Music Hall on March 1st 2013.