Review
Shallow Pools’ debut album, I Think About It All The Time, is a mesmerizing dive into the indie-pop realm, emanating from the heart of Boston’s queer music scene. This dreamy and pulsating electro-pop, capturing the essence of meaningful connections forged on the road. With a track list that features collaborative efforts with LGBTQIA+ icon Lynn Gunn of PVRIS and Cameron Walker-Wright of Twin XL and The Ready Set, Shallow Pools has set out to make a meaningful impact with their music.
Comprising Ali Ajemian, Glynnis Brennan, Jess Gromada, and Haley Senft, Shallow Pools ambraced a compelling artistic mission – to react to the world’s ongoing turbulence, infusing their songs with the emotions and ideas that matter most to them. Fearless in their pursuit of justice, they employ their music as a platform to spotlight and challenge societal injustices. Their very own name, derived from Paramore’s “Pool” lyrics: “Never found the deep end of our little ocean, I drain the fantasy of you, headfirst into shallow pools”, serves as a metaphor for their introspective approach.
The album opens with the haunting and moody “Nightmare”, a dark electro-pop gem that combines distorted guitar riffs with pulsating synthesizers. This track delves into a one-sided relationship spiraling into despair, with Glynnis’ commanding vocal asserting her newfound independence. It’s a powerful and gripping introduction to the album! “Say What You Want” is the second track that exemplifies activism at its finest, displaying Shallow Pools’ unabashed approach in addressing societal issues with their music.
“IHYK” stands out with its infectious earworm chorus and crisp guitar riffs courtesy of Jess Gromada. This track is a heartfelt ode to their support systems, acknowledging the importance of having a pillar of strength during times of vulnerability.
In “Golden”, the band navigates the delicate balance between happiness and existential dread, embodying the hesitance to fully commit to a relationship for fear of the unknown. The lush sound and poignant lyrics create a mesmerizing sonic landscape that beautifully captures the complexities of human emotions.
Encapsulating the bittersweet longing to reconnect with someone in another life, the album’s closing track “No Good at Goodbyes” mixes acoustic elements with electric guitars. The song have a profound sense of finality, making it an emotive and fitting conclusion to the album.
I Think About It All The Time offers a dynamic and authentic representation of Shallow Pools’ multifaceted personalities and their diverse musical influences. With a blend of pop and synth elements and alternative sensibilities, the album mirrors the band’s artistic evolution and their ability to craft engaging and thought-provoking music. Shallow Pools’ debut album is a testament to their unapologetic expression and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of indie-pop, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.