It's got an edge, moreso than Astro Coast, and that element of creeping unease makes Pythons a fuller, more mature and honest album than its precursor.
Surfer Blood as we knew them are dead - the new incarnation sound like they're headed for big things. Pythons could be their watershed.
On ‘Pythons’, the Floridians have ditched the surf rock of 2010 debut ‘Astro Coast’ and, instead, plundered college rock for all it’s worth.
Pythons seem to feel pretty conflicted about itself: hooky, Weezer-ish guitar pop offset by desperate, discomfiting lyrics, fleeting hopes of reconciliation quickly dashed by heavy-hearted resignation.
The tunes are there, they’re tsunami big and surfer cool – the lyrics are there, bold, bleak and biting – but there’s been an oversight when it comes to stamping on the pedals, letting rip and allowing Surfer Blood to tear this material a new hole.
The hooks are still here, but that level of hyper-attentive musicianship is absent on this decidedly punchier, glossier effort.
What's disappointing is that now, with two dozen recorded tracks to their credit, Surfer Blood haven't shown much desire to move beyond their comfort zone.
Despite their songs’ individual strengths, it is clear Surfer Blood are still finding their way on Pythons. Some of the songs are indistinguishable on first exposure, and the band doesn’t swerve all that much in their lanes to push any boundaries.
The main issue with this album is that it is not terrible and it is not brilliant. It is simply there. It’s hard to feel anything other than nonchalance towards ‘Pythons’.
Between Pitts' unrelieved misery and the tepid music, Pythons makes a bitter, unsatisfying brew. Imbibe at your own risk.
On Astro Coast Pitts stared at the bright, unwritten future in front of him, but on Pythons he’s locked in place, rendered motionless by the oppressive chip on his shoulder.
Proper generic middle ground rock. Had a very early 00s vibe to it.
Essential Track - Slow Six
I don’t know how many online music geeks like me i will offend, but -inhale- this give off a vibe like The Queen Is Dead.
The first track i listened to was Say Yea To Me, and instantly became obsessed. When i listened to it more and indulged into the album, the immaculate The Smiths vibe came back every track, and never disappoints. And funny enough, my least favourite track was arguably the most popular track, Demon Dance. Rest in peace to the talented Thomas Fekete. Your legacy will ... read more