Grouplove maintains talent with “Spreading Rumors”

By Quin Severo
Staff Writer

The five-man band, Grouplove, is known for their catchy music that appeals to many. Their new album, “Spreading Rumours,” has both its good and bad qualities, but overall seems to satisfy listeners and maintain the status quo of quirky alternative pop.

“Spreading Rumours” is fittingly eclectic and stays true to Grouplove’s style as a respected pop-rock band. From the unique and recognizable voice of the band’s lead singer, Christian Zucconi, to the sprinkled use electronic sounds, the album reminds listeners of the band’s 2011 album, “Never Trust a Happy Song,” with a new twist and .

The band came together in 2009, but didn’t release their first album until 2011. The five members were friends prior to formation of the band. In 2010, the band went on tour with Florence and The Machine, and then re-released their EP “Grouplove” after signing with their record company.

The band went on a world tour for their album “Never Trust a Happy Song” at the beginning of 2012. The band’s success has rocketed since its formation in 2009, causing it to be nationally recognized. Their reputation as hard-working and eccentric musicians has only been strengthened by “Spreading Rumours.”

Christian Zucconi’s voice as the lead singer of Grouplove alone differentiates the band from the average indie-rock band. He uses it unlike any other artist, going both very high, rather low, and everywhere in between. Although it can occasionally be too scratchy for some listeners, it is for the most part a pretty good balance.

The album begins with an unusually soft and quiet song, called “I’m With You”. It is a shocking beginning to the album because of how uncharacteristic it is for the band. In comparison to their usually upbeat and bouncy music, it is rather flat and calm. Surprisingly enough, the band masters it, and it is a delicate but gripping song that draws listeners into the album.

The song “Ways to Go”, which was released as a single prior to the release of the album, is definitely the best song on the album. The upbeat tone to it makes it easy to catch on to while it still sounds professional. The only downside to having such a good song on the album, is that it makes the rest of the album seem dull.

One of the other better songs on the album is “Hippy Hill,” which has a psychedelic sound to it. It includes more electronic sound than any other song on the album, and therefore stands out from the rest. It almost sounds like it could have been taken from their first album, “Never Trust a Happy Song.”

Overall, the album is another quality set of tracks for the developing band. Although “Spreading Rumours” does not quite meet the standards set by their first album, it comes close and is a good listen nonetheless.

“Spreading Rumours” was released on Sept. 19 and is for sale in stores and via digital media for $9.99.