Zerbin – Darling
4/5
Hailing from Western Canada (they formed in Edmonton, but are currently based in Vancouver), indie pop trio Zerbin are bursting with energy and talent. The success of their debut EP Touch has transferred over into the 11-track debut LP Darling. Irresistible pop melodies launch the band’s brightly polished sound into fresh territory. Fun and upbeat in all the right ways, Zerbin are proving they are ready to move onto bigger and better things.
Numerous indie rock influences come to mind with Zerbin’s fun-loving style; there is a strong connection to the expansive west coast sound of Young the Giant, matured energy of Sam Roberts and youthful pep of the Arkells. Album opener “Real Time Fall” warms up the listener to Zerbin’s carefree vibe, but “C’est La Vie” immediately brings the energy level up with the folk pop-inspired track.
With the guitar, drums and vocals working in unison, Darling only gets better: tracks such as “Shoulder” and “Ibiza/Burdens” utilize catchy dance rhythm and a layer of synthesizers to take their atmospheric alt-pop sound to new dimensions.
Masters of dramatic build, Zerbin heighten the experience with explosive climaxes and powering instrumentation. “Big Ghost”, “Darling” and “Never Meant” switch between slow and minimalistic, and dynamic and engaging fashion.
Infectiously optimistic, the lead single “Worlds on Fire” captures the warmth of summer, and the excitement of new love, turning any environment into an impromptu dance party. Incredibly catchy, the chorus of “Heads in the clouds / Bodies below in desire / The whole world’s on fire” cycles through, tattooing itself on the listener’s memory.
“Worlds on Fire” isn’t the only hit single to come from Darling; “New Earth” enthusiastically embraces the connection between Man and Earth, for the whistle-hook track. Ending the album on a definite high note, Zerbin re-establish their carefree ambience with the pop track.
Jason Zerbin, along with guitarist Peter Mol and drummer Duran Ritz, have crafted an impressive collection of indie pop tunes just in time for the warm, summer weather. Darling is a huge step in the right direction for the band, it won’t be long until the Albertan trio take over the rest of Canada.
Listen to the full album through Exclaim.ca and head over to the band’s website for remixes and to buy the album!
0 thoughts on “Zerbin – Darling”