POZ Review: She & Him - Volume 3

propertyofzack:

*This review was composed by Marie Scarsella and edited by Erik van Rheenen

Though she may be best known for being the “new girl,” Zooey Deschanel plays some old tricks with M. Ward by her side on She & Him’s latest album, Volume 3. Infusing sultry vocals with warm retro-pop tunes, the album is bright and bubbly, making it some of the duo’s best work to date.

Opening with the shimmering “I’ve Got Your Number, Son,” She & Him instate their standard cutesy vintage vibe while using Deschanel’s warm vocals to keep the sound fresh.  The track is filled with bouncy guitars and toe tapping beats, giving the song a Beach Boys feel.

Followed by the bombastic “Never Wanted Your Love,” the album begins to take shape. The lyrical theme of sadness and failed romance makes itself prevalent without tugging too hard at the heartstrings. Though the lyrics reflect on what seems like an emotional time period for Deschanel, Ward’s elegant arrangement maintains an upbeat feel, making the song more of a reflection than a dwelling.

Ward’s vocals finally make an appearance on doo-wop inspired “Baby,” adding a nice touch of harmony to the track. The two voices combine flawlessly, blending perfectly with the breezy summer chord progression.

Things slow down with “Something’s Haunting You,” and remain that way through “Together.” The two songs take a break from the jive-filled first half of the album, allowing for a smooth transition to the album’s second set of tracks. Both tracks play on different aspects of retro instrumental: the former, simplistic acoustic chords, the latter, brazen brass undertones.

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