ART OF SONG
The New
“High Life”
Untitled
Self-Released | 2010

“The New” didn’t exactly offer me a lot to work with. The title of the album this song is on, for example? No idea. Not a one. Although, if they want to hit me up for suggestions, I think I’d be good at that. I’m really good at making up awesome band names, not so good at forming actual bands. Maybe it’s why I find myself on the listening-and-writing-about-it side of the music industry.

But I digress.

Opening with a perky guitar riff and handclaps, “High Life” is danceable and radio-friendly. Lead singer Joe (see? Not much to work with, guys) has an almost Paul Banks/Interpol voice…with a definite British edge. These guys are from Derby, England…that much I do know.

“High Life” has excellent potential as a single. The musicianship is tight, the hook is catchy, and the lyrics don’t really matter. Apparently the “High life” is also “The breakdown” and you can “Take what you want.” Sounds pretty good to me.

The song could be about girls, or about being broke, or most likely about the two in combination. No one ever said indie rock was Kierkegaarde. I personally find indie rock much more palatable.

Stream “High Life” and a few other songs here.

by allison levin