Review: The Analog Affair Deliver Sharp Pop Songs on Debut Album ‘When You Go’

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The Analog Affair‘s latest LP, When You Go, seems nothing short of radio-friendly. You get in your car, start it up, turn on the radio, and there’s album opener “Ignite.” It feels pretty natural to see a song like this slide its way onto the radio. It’s got all of the necessary components found within the conventional pop formula. From the way the intro grabs your attention and carries you through the verses, to the disco-esque choral hook that further establishes the song and gives it its memorable mark.

It’s only fitting that the LP is classified as pop, with songs such as “Ignite” and Fast Hearts” to back it up. The strong vocal presence and soundscapes amidst the album brings other familiar radio-friendly indie groups such as Milky Chance, Washed Out and Capitol Cities to mind. Although, with that being said, that doesn’t mean that The Analog Affair doesn’t have anything unique to offer in the slightest.

Overall, the LP is well-composed, brimming with danceable and disco-influenced tracks that can be easily seen and found within clubs and venues. Songs like “Feel Your Fire” and the catchy and self-sufficient “Fast Hearts” further support this vision. While they probably wouldn’t burn up the club, radio-friendly songs such as “Ignite,” “Porter,” and “Take Me Home” seem capable enough of solidifying and garnering airplay.

To those giving it a brief listen-through, it’s an easy misconception to view the album as purely an upbeat party album. However, there are definitely some softer spots reserved on the album that in contrast balance the album in conjunction to all of the ‘emphatic’ songs. “Pillow Talk,” “Dream,” and “Lies” comprise the remainder of the album. These tracks are softer, smoother, and show a more pensive side of the duo. It’s easy to envision the prior songs on the dance-floor, with the closing tracks perceivable after the dance-floor clears out; in the perspective of one undergoing self-reflection off into the long and dreamy hours of the night. The LP closes with “Lies,” which starts off as a lush and languid composition, and then transitions to an apprehensive call for a distinction between the truth and the lies. An interesting twist to conclude the LP, but inevitably leaves you questioning about what’s next.

Overall, the LP is preserved through the several catchy dance and party anthems introduced, all while being rounded out with softer, more emotive tracks. The LP has a solid flow with great production, but falls a little short of what is expected. “Electric” captures a strong and heartfelt vocal performance, but feels as if its something’s missing; be it subtle or not. The guitars and synth also struggle to come together in the chorus, which is a bit noticeable as well. Although The Analog Affair have clearly defined their own unique and signature vocal style, some of the hooks on the LP aurally sound similar from song to song despite each being different. If you are one who enjoys dancing and going out to clubs, this album is just for you. If you are one who enjoys slower songs or jams, then maybe the closing half of the album will interest you. All in all, When You Go is an enjoyable album, and promises an exciting future to come for the duo.

(When You Go is available to purchase via Bandcamp digitally at theanalogaffair.bandcamp.com. Stream the track “Ignite” below via SoundCloud.)

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