STYLE: Dance/Electronic RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 157999-23213 LABEL: Drom FORMAT: CD EP ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Paul Ewbank
Californian EDM duo Saint Esprit's self-titled debut is a set of bright, enjoyable electronic pop songs with positive, upbeat lyrics. Musically their warm, buzzing synth sounds and twinkling electronics aren't a million miles away from contemporary electro acts like Robyn or CHVRCHES, but their God-focused lyrics and Kelly Bibeau's relaxed, super smooth vocals set them apart. There are a few issues with the album's production but the strength of the songwriting and abundance of energy are hard to fault. These guys really know how to write catchy hooks and huge sounding choruses- opening track "Wildfire" will probably remain stuck in your head after a couple of listens, and the remix by Matthew Parker that ends the set is even better, featuring a bigger variety of sounds and even a children's choir. "I Can Be The Light" has a distinctly '80s disco vibe and superb lyrics about carrying Jesus' light into dark places, but the standout track is definitely "Home" with its stripped down verses flowing into gorgeous harmonies on the chorus and snippets of rapped vocals that are awesome in a slightly cheesy kind of way. It's a shame that there is a lack of bass in the mix and some of the vocal effects start to grate after a while. Even so, the album is an easygoing listen.
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