Passion Pit: Gossamer Album Review

Passion Pit’s Gossamer is an exorcism and a damn good (if slightly hyperactive) one at that. With the success of Manners, Michael Angelakos and his band were thrust into a life of success, sold out shows and travel to an insane amount of countries. This was however not without some pitfalls. Angelakos fell to heavy drinking and drug consumption whilst battling some inner demons, as well a world recession taking place around him. These are all issues that are covered on Passion Pit’s second album, whilst also declaring thanks and love for his the personal saviour in his fiancée. Those of you who feel that the second album may delve into depression and the music may suffer, fear not as Gossamer has expanded on what made Manners so enjoyable and takes the listener on a deeper journey into Passion Pit’s candy coated land.

Album opener ‘Take A Walk’ may be about the effect of the global recession, but Vulture challenges you to not see the positive side as the helium-injected synth line and driving kick drum surround you. It immediately evokes memories of older tracks ‘Little Secrets’ and ‘The Reeling’. The jams continue with impossibly catchy ‘Carried Away’ that employs a memorable melody and pulsing synth bass line that brings the listener smoothly into a chorus that feels more like a group hug.  It seems as though the band is fairly intent on expanding their sound into other territories, highlighted superbly on ‘Constant Conversations’. A sensual slow jam with an interesting vulnerability surrounding it that has Swedish a cappella trio Erato providing lush background vocals that compliment perfectly.

Lyrically you can see that Angelakos has something to say and he seems more comfortable saying it plain and simple than dancing around the issues at hand. The Beach Boys-esque ‘On My Way’ and it’s statement, “Believe in me Kristina, all these demons I can beat them” being a prime example. Delving even further is ‘Love Is Greed’ which is reminiscent of the backhanded happiness of The Flaming Lips ‘Do You Realise’.

It’s true that this album may stem from troubled times but you get a sense that Passion Pit is rising to the challenge and determined to stand as the victor.  No more obvious than in heart-moving and fist pumping closer ‘Where We Belong’, using orchestration from young composer Nico Muhly to bring the song and album into a grander realm.

Gossamer is a solid follow up to Manners that will no doubt soundtrack many parties and road trips, however we should consider how lucky we are to be allowed to listen to such a private outlet of such high standing. We here at Vulture look forward to pressing repeat.

 

Tagged Beach Boys, Erato, Gossamer, Manners, Michael Angelakos, Nico Muhly, Passion Pit, The Flaming Lips