New Politics' latest album appropriately named Lost in Translation, has numerous influences that brilliantly translate into an international pop punk amalgamation. New Politics are innovative with their sampling and the sound effects they add to their music. The degree of precision is comparable to Beck’s seminole album Mellow Gold, though New Politics are a much needed optimistic breath of fresh air. There is a synchronicity in an unexpected consistency that dumbfounds me. They have a gift of using the most unexpected samples combined with subtle musical influences from all over the world and yet somehow - it all magically comes together. I am still discovering samples and sound effects added to their songs from 2013. The many layers keep their songs always feeling new. The upbeat music makes their songs desirable. Clearly, Lost in Translation does not waver from the unique musical recipe that New Politics fans have come to love.
| | The album opens with one of my favorite songs, “CIA.” It starts with a familiar reggae sample that hooks you immediately. Singer David Boyd has crisp somewhat staccato rap vocals that transition into more melodic pop punk vocals with a very catchy chorus. |
| The next three tracks surprisingly have different aspects of vaudeville in their sound. The very unifying “One Of Us” uses the piano in such a way that it makes the listener feel like they are about to see a play. The sound was clearly apparent as their music video has a theatrical aspect to it as well. Additionally, the tracl really showcases how New Politics has two highly talented singers. | |
Usually when there are two singers in the same band, one is clearly stronger than the other; the second singer usually being used as backup on the records and unable to perform live. That is not even the least bit applicable to New Politics. David Boyd is a talented melodic singer with good range and rap undertones. Offstage singer/guitarist Søren Hansen is friendly and a bit shy, though he has a highly expressive raw singing voice that is uniquely his own. Few singers are so fortunate to have such a distinctive voice as Søren Hansen. Some New Politics songs may strongly focus on one singer; though there is always a harmony between David and Søren. As seen in this stripped down rendition of "One of Us" (see above) even drummer Louis Vecchio provides quality backing vocals.
The album continues with their international theme adding a vaudeville sound with their eclectic use of the keyboard eliciting wonderment of what is about to happen next - much in the same way an organ evokes anticipation in silent films. Lyrically, Lost in Translation has a lot of variety. It has nostalgia, contemplation, and sensuality. Additionally, the album has inspirational songs about taking control of your life and holding on; though also knowing when to let go. The latter best describes "Lifeboat."
The album continues with their international theme adding a vaudeville sound with their eclectic use of the keyboard eliciting wonderment of what is about to happen next - much in the same way an organ evokes anticipation in silent films. Lyrically, Lost in Translation has a lot of variety. It has nostalgia, contemplation, and sensuality. Additionally, the album has inspirational songs about taking control of your life and holding on; though also knowing when to let go. The latter best describes "Lifeboat."
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“Lifeboat" grabbed me instantly. The vocals were powerful despite initially being backed by just drums and muted music. It transitioned into an alt rock powerhouse reminiscent of the early 2000’s that had me dancing around my living room. New Politics (above left) spoke about the lyrics meaning and their universal nature. Above right is the audio track.
“Istanbul” really stood out lyrically and musically; especially Louis Vecchio on drums. There was a hint of muted cymbals with a bass drum that resonated in my chest during each bridge. The lyrics were also very motivating and uplifting. Once again, this track showcasing the beautiful blend of Søren's distinctly different and emotion evoking vocals with David's melodic voice that starts off as a comforting whisper and transforms into an uplifting force.
“Istanbul” really stood out lyrically and musically; especially Louis Vecchio on drums. There was a hint of muted cymbals with a bass drum that resonated in my chest during each bridge. The lyrics were also very motivating and uplifting. Once again, this track showcasing the beautiful blend of Søren's distinctly different and emotion evoking vocals with David's melodic voice that starts off as a comforting whisper and transforms into an uplifting force.
“You got to pick up the pieces of your broken heart
You gotta stitch 'em together, you want a new start
And when you turn the page there will be different words.
You got to live everyday like it's the last night.
Don't need know where you're going before you take flight
And when you break the clouds there will be a different light.”
Top photo credit: Erin Walsh Lower photos: L.A. Woodside Lost in Translation has a good balance of being able to get lost in the music, tune out the world, and wonder what is going to come next. It is clear that New Politics has an element of fusion. Between songs there was a clear change of genres, yet a cohesive transition between tracks and styles. Some songs have reggae, African, and Asian influences mixed with pop punk, subtle rap, and rock. It is a lot to describe, but that is how music should be. It should not be easily articulated, yet easily move the listener. It is hard to tell if the production of this album was meticulous or if everything flowed together serendipitously. I’d wager it was a mixture of both.
I recommend listening to all four of their albums chronologically & to keep an eye out for their next album. They have been spending time with no other than ska punk and production god, John Feldmann. While there has not been an official announcement, but if the already insanely talented members of New Politics have teamed up with Feldy for their next album, they are sure to continue with their upwards trend of making even more impressive music. Their latest work may be named Lost in Translation, but New Politics are the Rosetta Stone of pop-punk and fusion. They will undoubtedly explode in the 2019 music scene.
I recommend listening to all four of their albums chronologically & to keep an eye out for their next album. They have been spending time with no other than ska punk and production god, John Feldmann. While there has not been an official announcement, but if the already insanely talented members of New Politics have teamed up with Feldy for their next album, they are sure to continue with their upwards trend of making even more impressive music. Their latest work may be named Lost in Translation, but New Politics are the Rosetta Stone of pop-punk and fusion. They will undoubtedly explode in the 2019 music scene.
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