Choir of Young Believer's Review

Many sounds found on Choir of Young Believers' third album, Grasque, are familiar. These range from art pop synthesizers reminiscent of Brian Eno's first solo records, to the ubiquitous tight snare of the 1980's.  Even with this familiarity, the synthesis of these sounds- and many more- provides listeners with a new and unique experience.  All songs on this record were written and composed by Jannis Noya Makrigiannis, the leader and singer of the band.

Production on Grasque is solid from beginning to end. This is mostly due to the extensive use of analog synths and the choice to avoid electronic drums on most songs. The synths provide a foundation for the vocals and contribute to how immersive the album can be. Choir of Young Believers makes sure to alter instrumentation from song to song, whether with the use of nylon-string guitar, piano, or electric guitar, and in doing so keeps the entire album feeling fresh. Although bass guitar is rare, when included, it is the richest sounding instrument on the entire album (see “Cloud Nine”).

Grasque's indecisiveness is first heard on “Græske”. This song travels much farther from pop than any other on Grasque, and though not entirely off putting, the over 8 minute long song starkly deviates from the mood set by the tracks preceding it. Though the beginning transitions are quite smooth, as the album moves on, these transitions feel much less thought out. The latter interludes (“Whirlpool Enigma”, “Salvatore”) act as unnecessary departures and neither contribute new interesting musical ideas, nor help to transition between songs. Development of grooves in many of the songs is hindered by the lack of bass guitar. The synthesizers in tandem with percussion attempt to form a groove, but ultimately do not reach their potential due to this deficit.

Grasque is at its finest when the instrumentation is simplified, and the use of pop-hooks is embraced. This marriage leads to great opportunities for instrumental departure which Choir of Young Believers uses wholly. But the goal of blending more adventurous instrumentation with vocals that have pop appeal is sadly only accomplished on the standout tracks, “Cloud Nine” and “Does It Look As If I Care”. Despite its shortcomings, Choir of Young Believers' Grasque is capable of providing a pleasant listening experience to even those with little interest in synth-based genres. 6.5/10