Review
Well, darling, let’s take a little stroll down memory lane—or perhaps memory *lane with a neon sign*—because TOPS’ *Picture You Staring* is the kind of album that feels like slipping into a perfectly broken-in leather jacket: effortlessly cool, with just the right amount of wear to make it interesting. Jane Penny’s voice glides over the tracks like a vintage convertible cruising down Sunset Boulevard at dusk, all smoky allure and understated charm. The band’s love letter to ‘80s soft rock and retro pop doesn’t just nod to the past; it winks at it, draping those influences in a modern, indie-pop sensibility that feels fresh without trying too hard.
Now, if we’re talking highlights—and oh, we *must*—*Circle the Dark* is the kind of song that makes you want to light a cigarette (even if you don’t smoke) and stare moodily out a rain-streaked window. Meanwhile, *Superstition Future* and *Sleeptalker* showcase TOPS’ knack for weaving lush, understated arrangements that feel intimate yet expansive, like a whisper that somehow fills the room. The whole affair is a study in restraint, clocking in at a breezy 44 minutes that leave you wanting just one more spin. It’s the kind of record that doesn’t shout for attention but instead lingers in your periphery, alluring and quietly unforgettable. *Picture You Staring* isn’t just an album; it’s a vibe, darling—and what a divine one at that. - Aurelia
