Review
"Teen Dream" by Beach House is a captivating exploration of the dream pop genre that marks a significant step in the duo's artistic evolution. Released in 2010, this third studio effort not only debuted under the Sub Pop label but also introduced a richer, more layered sound for the Baltimore-based artists. Recorded in a converted church in New York, the album presents an enchanted atmosphere that is both intimate and grandiose. It received rave reviews upon its release and has been consistently praised as one of the standout albums of the decade.
Victoria Legrand's haunting vocals paired with Alex Scally's intricate guitar work form the backbone of "Teen Dream," offering an absorbing experience track after track. Songs like "Zebra" and "Norway" showcase a phenomenal blend of melodic complexity and emotional depth, making it impossible not to be drawn into their ethereal audio universe. Despite the somber lyrics that often touch on heartache and melancholy, there's a mesmerizing quality to the music that transcends the sadness, turning each song into a cathartic experience. For anyone who appreciates the nuances of dream pop or shoegaze, "Teen Dream" is an essential album that promises an unforgettable auditory journey. - Courtney
Artist Bio
Beach House is a dream pop and indie rock duo from Baltimore, Maryland, formed in 2004 by Victoria Legrand and Alex Scally. They started releasing music in 2006 with their self-titled debut on Carpark Records and later moved to Sub Pop, building a discography of eight albums as of 2025, including *Teen Dream*, *Bloom*, and *Once Twice Melody*. Known for their lush, atmospheric soundscapes and hypnotic vocals, Beach House has been recognized internationally, with their album *7* earning a Swedish GAFFA Award nomination. They’ve worked mainly with Carpark, Sub Pop, and Bella Union, maintaining a unique blend of melancholic and dreamy music. Fans of bands like Slowdive, Mazzy Star, and Cigarettes After Sex will likely enjoy their sound.
