Teen Dream by Beach House is that person you see while walking down a busy street filled with people—that person who locks eyes with you in a blur of others and makes you come to a stop, knocks the breath out of you, and disappears. You think you’ve just seen one of the most beautiful things…but can’t be sure. After searching for a moment, you continue to walk toward your destination. I don’t know what it is about this album, but I listen to it, fall in love with her rich, deep voice and dreamy drove of guitar—then forget about it. “Zebra” is a great opener with a melodic riff, instilling imagery, and powerful lyrical symbolism; soon the quick high pitched breaths and background drone of “Norway” send me into My Bloody Valentinesque bliss while retaining originality. Similar to the rest of the album. “Walk in the Park’s” repetitive piano and basic drum machine beat echo the dark loneliness of the lyrics. Some of my all time favorite music causes me to gaze at my shoes, but Beach House is able to draw my gaze up with some of the more upbeat dream pop songs “Lover of Mine” and “Better Times”. I can’t figure it out. I know it should be one of my top favorite albums of the year, but it’s not (yet). I’ll “hang onto the things that you’re suppose to say” and just tell you this album is a must listen, especially if you have or haven’t heard any previous Beach House.
Beach House
