Monday, January 02, 2012

LISTEN: Inspired and the Sleep - "While We're Young" + "Running"


San Diego's Inspired and the Sleep craft breezy tunes that possess both an easing charm and bright-eyed tone. Songwriter Max Greenhalgh's forthcoming batch of songs under the Inspired and the Sleep moniker is entitled Teenager, and, fittingly enough, is the product of Greenhalgh's reflection on his teen years. It was inspired, lyrically, by his observations while working as a beach lifeguard, which makes perfect sense when you hear it -- you can almost feel the relaxed beach atmosphere. Lo-fi, bedroom pop -- call it what you will. This trio makes it hard not to long for the magic of summer.

Inspired and the Sleep - "While We're Young"

Download here

For something that sparks from a repeating ukelele riff, "While We're Young" sprouts into a rather groove-heavy jam. When that aforementioned riff meets a harmonizing flute, it's hard to deny the ungodly sweet sound. If your eardrums had teeth, they'd probably need to be checked for cavities after downing this song a few times.

It's the sound of a tropical centerpiece playing around with an '80s clap snare and a lighthearted, afropop-style flute arrangement; it's just as infectious for its melody as it is for its groove. There's a breeziness to it that plays a perfect complement to its steady, energetic beat.

Inspired and the Sleep - "Running"

Download here

A less energetic cut, but no less inviting and sweet. With what, again, sounds like a ukelele, Inspired and the Sleep start simple and build from there. With a few carefully placed layers of percussion and a strolling bass riff weaving in and out, it's a laid back affair that's delicate and playful.

Check out a video for "Running" below.



Inspired and the Sleep
Facebook
Bandcamp
SoundCloud
Twitter

No comments: