GIVERS - In Light LP
Givers' debut album, In Light is the most rewarding and joyous album you'll hear all year. The Lafayette, Louisiana-based five-piece are nothing short of ebullient, tying together ecstatic ribbons of melodies into songs that leave you no choice but to smile upon hearing them. In understanding Givers, it's helpful to think of a constellation, a configuration of points that, when placed in succession, led to the band's brilliant debut. The metaphor proves particularly useful given the name of their album – In Light is a collection filled with uncontainable brightness, buoyed by constantly evolving rhythms, warmed by spangling guitars, and illuminated by the melodic altruism that is the band's mission statement. In Light is as complex as it is enjoyable. It is a record that is as unique as the sounds of the state in which the band lives, and Givers themselves.Opener and first single "Up Up Up" is nothing short of anthemic, a rousing calling card for the band's elated sound. "Ripe" is a kaleidoscope of sultry Afro-pop, while "Meantime" showcases the band's instrumental and thematic investment in fluidity, capping off with a no-holds-barred group sing-along. "Words" fuses fist-pumping, heavy percussion with staccato vocal chants, and "In My Eyes" is lifted into the night sky by fluttering harmonies, steel drum chimes, swirling guitar solos and cricket hums. "Atlantic" laces Lamson's textured drawl with Caribbean accents, ukulele plucks and keyboard sparkles. Refreshingly alive with melody, endless energy, and downright danceability, In Light is the perfect introduction to Givers.
