Darwin Deez - Double Down

It’s no secret that Darwin Deez are great at feel-good music. Still, don’t be deceived by the punchy beats and indie-pop frontage, this album isn’t afraid to explore the bad and the bitter. In fact, the whole thing feels like a series of vaguely resentful love letters scattered between Darwin’s catchy lyrical hooks. Things get intense, awkward, and downright confrontational as he dishes out imperatives about whether you want to be his lover or not…Nonetheless, Double Down does a great job of conveying a full scope of emotion, swaying into wistful tenderness in Melange Mining Co. and The Missing I wanna Do.  The album is gritty and raw – I’m impressed. It’s a nice late summer listen, and makes a natural progression from the band’s earlier work. Their bouncy, American indie roots still shine through, but album number three definitely feels like an upgrade instrumentally. The twisting, woozy guitar solos are a welcome addition. The Other Side and Rated R stand out for me, with Darwin’s distinct vocals careening seamlessly through infectious melodies. On the whole, the album gets progressively better as it goes on, calming into a mature, diverse and unique work. Props to Darwin Deez.