Purity ring repeats with new record
March 6, 2015
Novelty in any music career works to some degree as a form of beginner’s luck. A debut album is exciting and often unexpected – it gives listeners a chance to be caught off guard.
First impressions are key, especially if you’re bringing something truly original to the table. This phenomenon gives way to the sophomore slump: it’s something we’ve heard before, the novelty has worn off, and you know that somewhere someone is saying, “It wasn’t as good as their first album.”
This is where we find Canadian electro-duo Purity Ring at the release of their second album, “Another Eternity.” Where critics and fans lauded Purity Ring’s 2012 debut “Shrines” for its unorthodox pairing of experimental production with singer Megan James’ prosaic lyrics, the second time around, there is a distinct been-there-done-that hue cast over the duo’s new body of songs.
Not to say that it doesn’t still work — Purity Ring is clearly still in command of their unique ability to create catchy, hook-dense electronic pop. The biggest departure they make on “Another Eternity” is to push even further into the popular music sector.
Following their collaboration “25 Bucks” with rapper Danny Brown on his 2013 album “Old,” it’s clear to see the hip-hop influence infused into producer Corin Roddick’s tracks. The result? A more radio-ready sound on singles like “Begin Again,” but a faltering of originality that once made Purity Ring feel so fresh.
In a world where electronic elements have made their way into virtually every kind of music being made in 2015, relying on the novelty of synth-heaviness and infectious rhythm and blues beats is no longer a safe bet. There’s too much out there to compete with for listener’s attention. For a band like Purity Ring that has the potential and the vehicle to push the boundaries of electro-pop outside what they have helped to legitimize as a popular genre, the goal should be something that brings that sense of novelty back into the game.
All in all, “Another Eternity” is an easier if less intriguing listen then their previous release and is sure to make an excellent edition to any springtime playlist. But, looking ahead, I’m optimistic that Purity Ring will push beyond the comfort of what they know to bring another kind of eternity to their successful sound.