If you’ve ever felt a strange sense of nostalgia for the ‘80s childhood you never had, grab the latest from Neon Indian, the most recent project from Texas musician Alan Palomo, whose synth stylings are more familiar under his VEGA moniker.
Despite the sheen of his main project, Neon Indian finds the always-restless musician experimenting in a more homemade style. As the torchbearer of the questionably-named “glo-fi” movement, Neon Indian’s hazy, vintage synth sound is the group’s trademark. Much like their EP from the summer, Psychic Chasms is all about that sound, from the opening 25-second non-song “(AM),” which sets the mood for the album’s lovable, vintage melodies.
The immediately catchy “Deadbeat Summer” contrasts Palomo’s breathy voice with grinding guitar and synth chords. Atari-like bleeps and 90s-electronica beats introduce the intricately layered “Mind, Drips,” while the robotic, Daft Punk-like “Ephemeral Artery” offers some intensity compared to the ooh-oohing of much of the album.
“Should Have Taken Acid with You” mixes the dreamy and dancey most effectively. Fittingly enough for the already-passé glo-fi movement, it was the group’s first song: Palomo wrote it as an apology to bandmate Alicia Scardetta for cancelling a planned LSD date. As the defining song of this ill-defined and quite possibly short-lived sub-subgenre, no subsequent variant can come close to the original.
While Pyschic Chasms may draw on many influences from decades past, including samples from Palomo’s ‘70s Mexican pop-star father, the album is clearly of 2009. With songs easily enjoyed on their own, Neon Indian gives our generation a chance to relive the music eras we never really experienced. You may never be able to rewind to a pre-CD culture, but if you’re looking for a half hour time warp, turn on the smoke machine and tune out.
Voice’s Choices: “Psychic Chasms,” “Deadbeat Summer,” “Should Have Taken Acid with You”
