Review
Phantogram's sophomore effort, "Voices," steps confidently into the major-label spotlight, showcasing a sound that's as lush as it is meticulously crafted. Released in the waning days of winter, 2014, this album is a testament to the duo's growth, with Sarah Barthel's vocals floating like a whisper over a rich sonic tapestry. The production, a collaborative effort with John Hill, weaves together midtempo beats, shimmering synths, and guitars that layer with an almost tactile complexity. It's an album that doesn't shy away from the dreamy, gaze-at-your-shoes textures, yet it's equally at home delivering a solid pop hook that sticks with you long after the music stops.
"Fall in Love" stands out with its sultry swagger, polished to a high sheen that wouldn't be out of place on a Beyoncé track, while "Bill Murray" channels a Beach House-like serenity. The energy ratchets up with "Howling at the Moon," a track that skitters and pulses with a vitality that's hard to resist. And let's not forget the haunting closer, "My Only Friend," which echoes the grandeur of M83. Steven Drozd of The Flaming Lips lends his talents to "Never Going Home," adding a touch of psychedelic flair to the mix. Critics embraced "Voices" with open arms, and it's not hard to see why. With over 115,000 copies sold in the U.S. by mid-2016 and a strong debut on the Billboard charts, Phantogram has proven that they're not just playing the game—they're redefining it on their own terms. Clocking in at a concise 44 minutes, "Voices" is a journey through the duo's evolution, a collection of tracks that are as introspective as they are ready for the airwaves. - Melanie
