Thursday 17 February 2011

Cut Copy - ‘Zonoscope’ (Modular)


In contrast to such inviting artwork, the first track seemed to offer a rather vanilla introduction to Cut Copy’s new album, Zonoscope. However, this Aussie group go on to unleash the sweetness, syrups and sprinkles to deliver a knickerbocker glory of tunes for their third album.

Fans of their previous material will be hooked from the start, as this album follows their last, ‘In Ghost Colours’ with bright eyes. Whilst they maintain their symbolic electro beats all the way through ‘Zonoscope’, it is the slightly tamer tracks that make it stand out from the previous. Each song flutters between extreme genres of the ‘80s; dashing their iconic synth pulse with shoe-gaze sounds it is a promising mix that is comparable to a LCD Sound system Jesus and Mary Chain mash-up. It is an unlikely unison that Cut Copy execute well.


Though old fans may enjoy, it is plausible to think that following this record, 2011 will offer up even more to this band. The album puts forward the bouncing energy of what bought them to fame, flirting with other eras and sounds that will be sure to land them a few more fans this year.


The highlight of ‘Zonoscope, for me, was the third track, ‘Where I’m Going, which standouts out on the album for its sprightly, ‘60s pop melody. It seems that even the lyrics reflect this- ‘all you need is a dream and a lover too’.
Despite this, it is arguable that some of the tunes within the album lack originality within the music itself; there are moments that are suspiciously similar to known songs from the past. Having said this, it is a common occurrence which is seen from many artists, and therefore perhaps a dismissible flaw. On a whole, the album comes together nicely, offering you something that is familiar to the ears, yet tickles the brain.

‘Zonoscope’ concludes with Sun God, an epic fifteen-minute track that is as versatile to be suited for a warm summer day with your friends, or a long and dirty night out. It is fair to say that Cut Copy, have grown from their initial style, maybe only very slightly, managing to cultivate their sound, and with a hint of something colourful.

By L. E. Dee Robson

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