Synthesizer-driven pop with occasional forays into rock. Fourth LP from Kamtin Mohager’s solo project, The Chain Gang of 1974. He also plays 90s-inspired shoegaze and alternative rock in the bands Teenage Wrist and Heavenward. I’ve consistently enjoyed his records and really dug this one. With the exception of the last track, all of the songs sound the same, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

From the cover art: “This product was created to accompany either (a) broken heart (b) ocean sky (c) night drives (d) cinematic moments.”

Favorites: 2, 5, 7, 10, 13
FCC: 4
Related: Grimes, Wild Nothing, The 1975

1. (0:49) Honey Moon Drips — Atmospheric, subdued vox, steadily builds in intensity
2. (3:08) * Do You Mind? — Anthemic, windows down, great chorus
3. (3:35) Giving It Up — Great beat, one of the more straightforwardly synthpop tracks on the record
4. (3:45) YDLMA — FCC f*** at 2:42. Dreamy pop, love the vox + lyrics on this
5. (3:20) * The Hurt is Good — Sorrowful lyrics, about a former lover
6. (1:16) Fervor — Ambient interlude
7. (3:42) ** Times We Had — Driving, nostalgic, my favorite track on the record
8. (3:26) I Think We Need to Sleep — Sugary synthpop, not a fan
9. (3:34) Philosophy of Love — Great drumming, other than that this track doesn’t have many redeeming qualities
10. (3:31) ** Bends — Late sunset, my second favorite track, love the vox in the last minute
11. (3:35) Champagne Saturday — Pop song, soaring vox
12. (3:35) 4AM, Still Lonely — Contemplative piano-driven
13 (5:02) ** Such a Shame — Moody bass-driven track, The Cure inspiration