Changesby VACATIONS

I think what makes this album great is that true to its influences while also being Seperate from then and having its own unique personality. This Cleary takes influence from 80's bands like the Smiths and from new wave in general. It also takes on some of the qualities that are common to modern indie rock. All of this gets blended quite nicely and becomes an emotional yet laid back opus. It's also interesting to note that this isn't a flashy in your face album. It's an album that is impressive because it's not trying to be impressive. Nothing on the album comes across as trying to more than what it is. This simplicity is what makes the album fun and relatable in alot of ways.

The vocals have a long drawn out quality about them that is not only simmilar to the smiths but also reminds me of groups like Beach House or even the Deftones (when they are not screaming of course). And this gives the album a very dreamy quality to it that is reminiscent of shoegaze and dream pop. And it hints at these styles without fully embracing them. And this allows the album to feel familiar while also not being completely tied down to any one sound or idea.

Also On Hold is my favorite track on the album and possibly one of my favorite indie songs I've heard this year. It's too good!