With the surging start of “Wasting Time”, Prism Eyes’ opener is awash with jangly riffs, catchy drums, and crisp cymbals. Lo-fi lovebirds Rob Garcia and Sarah Everton croon out a synchronized chorus in crystallized calm optimism. Evocative of acceptance or some form of humble wisdom, “Wasting Time” feels therapeutic, falling somewhere between the extremes of apathy and melodrama. It’s honest, to the point but sweet. Its lack of lyrical complication leaves each line cohesive to its backbeat and harmonized brilliance. The smoothed-out feel of Prism Eyes begins with the duo’s first track. Easily detected by Mystical Participation diehards or devotees, Reading Rainbow’s latest plays less rough around the edges in comparison to their debut without altering the band’s penchant for washed out pop. Polished yet still lo-fi, Garcia and Everton’s efforts remain sincere, just enhanced and more refined. “White Noise” slightly heightens the album’s tempo with a pinch of dissonance through garage meets surf pop riffs. Vocals settle above chords and drumbeats, leaving listeners to lose themselves in the band’s layers of fuzzed out sound. “Animals Take Control of Me” brings to mind buzz bands like Beach Fossils or Surfer Blood. Slow, steady and mellow, the album’s fourth track eases in gradually, hitting its peak towards the 2-minute mark by way of stunningly fashioned vocals, specifically on Everton’s part. Ending with ah-ah-ahs, “Animals Take Control of Me” gives way to “Underground” and its upbeat brisk duration. The overt romance of “Let’s Dream Tonight” is sugary sweet and (thankfully) easy to stomach due to the saving grace of its honesty. Brave enough to showcase their feelings without a stitch of irony, Reading Rainbow is straightforward without apology. The piece-by-piece start of “Must Be Dreaming” feels fresh with purpose and an easily danceable backbeat while the jangly pop of “Always On My Mind” instantly charms. “Cut In Two” rocks harder than its preceding tracks with driving riffs and a solid gritty tempo. Closing with the album’s title-track followed by “To My Gemini”, Reading Rainbow’s sophomore effort is vibrant and full of charm. You can purchase Prism Eyes via Hozac Records.
Below is their new video for “Always on My Mind” by Amanda Finn, which was inspired by 60’s new wave French films ala Jean Luc Goddard. Also check out their interview with Elle Magazine here. Haha – what fashionistas!
– Dianca Potts