Matthew Wears reviews the fifth album from synth rocker Tycho
Mom + Pop Music x Ninja Tune
Released: 12.07.19
California-based synth pop/post-rock artist Tycho returns with his fifth studio album, which sees a departure from the sound that band leader Scott Hansen has developed over his exceptional career. The trademark warm and colourful synths are still present, but they’re mixed with elements of trip-hop and more bass-driven sounds that give the album a rougher edge than evidenced on previous records. The biggest change for the band was the decision to collaborate with vocalist Saint Skinner, whose elegant and breathy delivery goes hand in hand with Tycho’s dreamlike soundscapes.
Weather is breath of fresh air for a band that was beginning to sound all too familiar; the changes have made for an album that remains tender and bittersweet, whilst pointing Tycho in an unfamiliar and refreshing direction.