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Pop Psychology, the third and most recent release by Neon Trees, doesn’t excite. Everything is too familiar.  I had never listened to the band, yet I felt like I’d heard these songs all before. In all aspects of the album’s composition, there is a lack of originality.

 

The singer is able to deliver, but his voice isn’t unique. It’s important to note that use of the word “voice” is in a metaphorical sense as well as literal. I’m going to go in an unusual direction and discuss this “metaphorical” aspect first. Whenever I sit down and listen to a song I ask, “What is this person trying to communicate that I haven’t heard before?” In this case, what value has been brought to me from hearing “Love in the 21st Century”, or “Sleeping With a Friend?” I can’t determine the quality of the music based on that single factor; ultimately it 

is up to the individual. However, I will say that listening to Pop Psychology was a waste of my time. To touch back on the literal aspect of the voice of Tyler Glenn, the band’s lead vocalist, there is also a lack of originality. The vocals remind me of Maroon 5, which is a low blow because I don’t even like Maroon 5.

 

I don’t feel that this record is genuine. The subject matter is juvenile, not to say that this is a bad thing. I would be impressed if a 13 year old wrote these songs, but these are adults. Why would a 30 year old want to sing a song called  “Teenager In Love?” Perhaps to make money.  It’s proven that songs like that sell. Ever heard of Justin Bieber? I hear he does quite well for himself.  

 

I’m not condemning wanting to make money off your records, but there’s a point to where you become less of a band and more of a business. It’s proven that when you’re overly concerned with money the quality of your music is diminished.

 

There is nothing fresh here. Pop Psychology is as dull as a sword with no stone. However, I have no doubt it will make a lot of money.

Neon Trees - Pop Psychology

Aaron Shipey| May 3, 2014

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