The Hidden Cameras—AGE

Review by Luis A. Apolaya

This Canadian band’s ninth release features a prevalent use of strings and church choir-like vocals, though the group also resorts to synthesized atmospheres and beats. Combines an indie rock feel with Eleanor Rigby style strings and elements of gothic rock. A dub song and a dance song also included. Tracks 1, 4, 5, and 8 are recommended. RIYL Bauhaus, the Smiths, Federico Aubele.

**1. (4:48) Ominous choir loops for first minute over a background of strings crescendo, vocals add to the premonition after the choir fades away, drums and more powerful, rapid strings follow, when the song starts to calm down the choir loop returns, great opening.

2. (2:45) Accentuated violin and cello in the background, strings are more appealing than the vocals.

*3. (4:17) Dark vocal intro, moderately fast when drums and synth beat come in, despondent lyrics.

*4. (4:55) Urgent string section throughout, pretty fast paced, social criticism, weird vocal samples á la Yoko Ono after half of song, slowly vocals fade out and strings finish soft.

*5. (6:12) Pretty good dub, smooth and slow, soft distant guitar, good drum work, strings and synth enhancements appear sporadically, an incoherent trumpet appears by the end.

*6. (4:52) Dance synth riff persists throughout song, could pass for a Pet Shop Boys era song, actually kinda danceable.

7. (2:19) Vocalist singing over a layer of synths and strings, short and sweet.

**8. (4:49) Possibly the densest track in the album, strings and synths add effect of growing urgency (and maybe hope?), very good crescendo by the end, vocalist and all instruments let it all out by the closing, great ending.