Supermoon

Supermoon

Playland

Mint

The self-proclaimed gadabouts of moody pop are at it again! Supermoon’s latest excursion, Playland, bubbles with intelligent, weirdo songs that combine sunny riffs and distorted ring-outs. Coated in sugary vocals with driving bass, spectral guitars and marching drums, the songs of Supermoon wink at something lurking beneath the surface. Rising from the ashes of two former Vancouver bands—the garage rock outfit Movieland and jangle pop trio Pups—Supermoon recalls the best aspects from both groups on its catchy, challenging songs. Multi-instrumentalists Adrienne LaBelle and Alie Lynch take turns adding rich, dark bass and bright, sneering lead lines. Katie Gravestock, known as Groovestock to her bandmates, lives up to her nickname by supplying an endless supply of smooth, melodic riffs. Selina Crammond provides the backbone to the group with her playful drumbeats, reminiscent of the Flying Nun catalogue. As each of the members trade off on vocals and songwriting duties, the album is at once eclectic and cohesive. The interplay between the musicians is central to the group’s sound as each instrument weaves in and out of the soundscape. Dueling guitar riffs, dynamic breakdowns, and responsive rhythms are all direct results of this reciprocity. The outcome of the band’s close relationship can also be heard in the warmth that permeates the album. There is a distinct tenderness to their musicianship, even in its more ominous moments. Part hot fudge sundae, part film noir; prepare to be weirded out by the addictive and intricate novelty of Supermoon’s Playland. Who knows what darkness lurks...