New Politics – Vikings
3/5
For alternative pop rock group New Politics writing dance-inducing, blood-pumping music has always been their forte. It is easy to say their goal has always been to entertain and make sure everyone involved is having a great time – just look at their hit single “Harlem”. Now they’re onto their third album Vikings, and the Denmark-born musicians are continuing to unleash bass-thumping, reel-you-in hits.
(Photo by Max Schwartz; courtesy of WBR)
Based out of Brooklyn, New York, the melting pot neighbourhood has been a strong inspiration for their music with the underground dance rock scene of the area coming through their new hits. Incorporating punk, alternative rock, and undeniable influence from pop, Vikings is straight to the point of being “fun music”.
However, unlike the polished, production-heavy quality of west coast pop, they have an unfiltered edge from their New York headquarters. “Everywhere I Go (Kings and Queens)” is a prime example; the fuzz-rock, underground dance vibe makes sure to keep the song away from studio-fuelled pop. The lead single stomps its way into your memory, making it nearly impossible to get out of your head.
Most of the songs from Vikings follow a similar motto: dance, dazzle, delight. “West End Kids”, “Girl Crush”, and “Loyalties Among Thieves” all use synth-based hooks and spirited melodies to create a great time.
Although the second half of the album begins to slip in terms of B-side pop songs (“50 Feet Tall”, “Pretend We’re In A Movie”, “Stardust” come to mind), New Politics still write high quality pop tracks, with the anti- “rich bitch” track “Aristocrat” and frantic pop/punk song “Strings Attached” closing off the album with a hint of rebellious attitude.
Although they lose their sound slightly in the middle of the album (we can perhaps blame the record company), the overall party-based atmosphere of the album keeps them afloat and even produces some quality alternative pop hits. Listen to the album in full through People.com and enjoy the music.
