Sunflower Bean are known for shaking things up musically and this latest effort certainly exceeds all prior expectations. ‘Mortal Primetime’ is an exhilarating, genre-bending 10-track rebirth for the New York indie-pop trio, encompassing creative freedom and vulnerability while embracing both euphoria and gut-wrenching heartache.
Opener Champagne Taste is electrifying, pulling together new wave and No Doubt-era Gwen Stefani. Rebellious and punchy, it has a somewhat nonchalant feel to it, reminiscent of Joan Jett punk edge. By way of contrast, Nothing Romantic is more vulnerable. “There’s nothing romantic in being alone,” vocalist Julia Cumming admits. There’s A Part I Can’t Get Back is similarly honest as she works through an experience with a toxic ex.
Following this, Waiting For The Rain is an emotive duet tackling the relatable feeling of fading connections, wishing to go back to a time when things were easier. The chorus is poignant, encased in fuzzy, distorted synths.
Sunshine is a surprising but immensely gratifying way to end, adding an almost Deftones-esque atmosphere to a seemingly carefree shoegaze track. Cumming speaks of new romance symbolising the warmth of Californian sunshine — what a delightful twist.
‘Mortal Primetime’ speaks truthfully from the heart from start to finish, delivering 35 minutes of pure bliss as Sunflower Bean meld incisive emotional writing with dynamic production choices and a fresh outlook on their sound.
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