Perhaps it was never
Salako's intention to dent the downbeat electro-pop market in the way bands such as
Lemon Jelly and Röyskopp have, and on evidence of this first release the group's approach isn't as is fine-tuned as acts in that genre. Maybe it's the sound of a band trying to be too clever, or the use of programming isn't as accomplished as others', but what is apparent is that you're dealing with a band that has a clear premise of what constitutes a concept album -- fans of
Beck's
Mutations would be in agreement. That absurd notion that you've heard something before, even without having done so, is brought through on opening tracks "Each One Unique," "Words Are Not Useful," and the single "Growing Up in the Night," while song titles "Sunburst" and "Glass-Bottom Boat Rides" invoke a summery feel that befits the album musically. Group member Luke Barwell is a one-man band in terms of his input on this release. He scopes the majority of the album's course with his mastering of the drum machine and use of loops, contrasting with the omnipresent acoustic guitar and James Waudby's indie pop vocals. The finished product is a largely pleasant portion of sunshine pop intended to lift your mood. If that doesn't transpire, be prepared to be consumed by wacky lyrics or novel sound effects, if that's your thing. How about
Simon & Garfunkel bonding with
Stereolab, or
Kraftwerk meets
Badly Drawn Boy? With 20 tracks, there's something to suit everyone, especially if you're familiar with fellow Jeepster acts
Belle & Sebastian or
Snow Patrol. Intriguing, if only for its ambition. ~ Owen Guthrie-Jones