By Nikki Bordokas
Staff Writer
STRFKR, along with other bands like Foster the People, MGMT, and Passion Pit, can be credited for starting and popularizing the synth-pop genre.
With STRFKR’s newest album, “Miracle Mile,” the band keeps the characteristics of the genre it helped create but shows little originality or growth. Although “Miracle Mile” is enjoyable and easy to listen to, it is nothing noteworthy and is easily forgettable.
STRFKR formed in Portland, Oregon first as frontman and songwriter Josh Hodges’ solo-project, but eventually transformed into a band with three other members: Shawn Glassford (keyboards, bass, drums); Patrick Morris (guitar, keyboards, vocals); and Keil Corcoran (keyboards, drums, vocals). STRFKR has gained popularity not only for the accessible dance music, but also for its often theatrical live shows.
Unfortunately, STRFKR’s only evidence of growth and experimentation comes mainly from its name changes (four in the past six years) rather than musical progression, leaving “Miracle Mile” only as a repeat of the band’s past three albums. Opener “While I’m Alive” is catchy but nothing special. The song could be confused with the previous album’s single “Julius,” as both feature a similar, high-pitch electronic melody that dominates the song.
The mediocrity and lack of originality extends past the opening track, too. Almost every song features flat synth loops that seem as if anybody could simply find them on GarageBand. The bass lines are bland and simple, and the falsetto vocals lack personality. The majority of the tracks feel like an amateur attempt at copying the likes of more prolific and talented electronic synth-pop bands like Hot Chip or Cut Copy.
The only tracks that seem to divert positively from STRFKR’s usual sound are “Say to You” and album closer “Nite Rite.” “Say to You” features a crooning Hodges over a more soulful, R&B-influenced base line. The song does not rely on heavy electronic loops, instead focusnig in on Hodges’ alto vocals, a nice refresher.
The albums’ true gem, however, is “Nite Rite.” At seven minutes long, it features a three-minute crescendo, displaying some of Hodges’ composition skills. Rather than the cookie-cutter, vacuous tracks that make up the rest of the album, “Nite Rite” acts as a relief to the blandness of the album, utilizing a less overpowering synth and drum machine, clearing up the song for listeners.
Perhaps the problem with the album is that it is not meant to be dynamic or an attempt at creative expression. STRFKR is famous for its theatrical live shows, and “Miracle Mile” seems to cater more toward this aspect. The group members need to realize that they need innovation in order to keep fans..
STRFKR seems to be trapped within the confinements of its own genre. Its members continuously create the synth tunes expected of them, but, unfortunately, seem to lack the ability to develop into a mature and merit-worthy band. They show nothing of notice in “Miracle Mile,” which proves to be a sad attempt at a new release.
“Miracle Mile” is available in retail stores and as a digital download for $9.99.
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