Album Review: “Beacon” - Two Door Cinema Club

I don’t always post album reviews, but if I do, it is probably an impressive album.

“Beacon”, by Two Door Cinema Club fits that mold. 

If you aren’t familiar with Two Door Cinema club, they are an indie rock band formed in Northern Ireland around 2007. Their first album, “Tourist History” received a few awards, but nothing an average person would notice. That being said, “Beacon” should garner several more, impressive awards.

The album begins with an jumpy electronic synth and a drum track before lead singer Alex Trimble carries a soothing tune across rhythmic guitar riffs throughout the duration of “Next Year.”

The album continues, using trimble’s voice to carefully craft a creative tunes. But halfway through the album, things began to become boring — loud, guitar filled choruses and soft drum beats with rhythmic bass. The members of Two Door cinema club must have noticed the problem, because the songs begin to morph, creating a well rounded effort. 

An album needs to be well-rounded. Many focus on one or two hits to carry a project. This album does not. Each song brings a unique quality that complements the album.

Check out this video for their first single off of the album “Sleep Alone.”

Album Review: Born and Raised - John Mayer

As a general rule John Mayer puts out solid albums. I cannot think of an album by Mayer that I am utterly disappointed by. Apparently, he can play a pretty mean guitar too, or so I hear from my guitar-playing friends.

The latest addition to his discography intrigued me from the moment I heard it. The album begins with a typical Mayer track in “Queen of California.” The album continues to follow the Mayer-mold that he has developed for himself. A few tracks stray from what one would typically expect from an album by John Mayer, but nothing too out of the ordinary. 

All in all, the album is solid. Personally I am not going to buy the album. It doesn’t stand out to me as something extraordinary. Whenever I judge an album, I always think about its potential for longevity. “Born and Raised” doesn’t provide me with a musical experience I couldn’t achieve from something I already have in my musical library.

But in an age where music is becoming increasingly watered down with meaningless lyrics, Mayer puts together a solid effort, apologizing for his misdeeds. Throughout the course of my musical journey with “Born and Raised” I learned of Mayer’s internal struggles during the past few years.

I cannot see myself spending long hours listening to this album, maybe on a long road trip. However, I am sure there are plenty who will enjoy a night under the stars listening to “Born and Raised.” 

My Grade: B

Album Review: Careless World- Tyga

Do you remember when everyone was putting the lime in the cocunut and twisting it all up?

It was quite a while ago. Needless to say, rap has changed significantly since 2008. Tyga’s rap style has also changed significantly. He has gone from a party animal that also exhibited his sensual side with songs such as “Pillow Talking” to a hood phenomenon.

Tyga exhibits his Compton roots with songs such as “Faded” and “Rack City.”

There are several tracks on this album that I am very fond of. The problem lies in the fact that Tyga cannot continue his excellent delivery over the course of an entire album.

I am not saying the songs aren’t good. They just don’t stand out. That being said, Tyga delivers a solid performance. This album is a spectacular addition to any rap discography.

While listening to this album, I heard similarities to Drake and Lil’ Wayne. Tyga is able to vary his delivery depending on the accompanying beat. I am excited to see where his career goes.

I’ll give this album: 3.5/5