The sophomore album from School Of Seven Bells is a return to the familiar electronic dance sound from “Alpinisms.” But unlike their debut album, “Disconnect From Desire” is a more rounded and complex effort, with songs that sound much more organic, whereas before, the band seemed to offer only songs that sounded like they were generated by a computer running an algorithm that could only help but produce unfocused and hazy musical droning, to which the band added similarly hazy and unstructured vocals.
But this time, there is definitely evidence of more effort and more artful crafting in the songs on “Disconnect From Desire.” The vocal melodies and harmonies are much more interesting, with the Deheza sisters singing through moments of dreamy unison and compelling opposition, all in their trademark airy and almost wistful style.
Still, it seems like the computer’s algorithm is still running, generating one overall sound that was already straining to retain its relevancy at the end of “Alpinisms.” Sure, it works at the beginning, as Heart Is Strange seems to signal a refreshed and innovative version of School of Seven Bells’ sound. But this newness doesn’t last, collapsing what could have been a pleasing reinvention of a signature sound into an unyielding, dense labyrinth of sound that leaves you in an uncomfortable daze. It breaks through for a moment with Bye Bye Bye, which is musically the band’s most intrepid moment in which they demonstrate sufficient musical aplomb to stray away from their computerized crutch. But it’s certainly an improvement, and promises that if School Of Seven Bells continues in such a direction they’ll mature into a wholly original and entirely enjoyable band.
Rating: 4/5
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Reviewed by Christina Alifrangis
