Western Education formed in 2012 while attending University of Massachusetts Lowell. (Courtesy of Western Education)
Christopher Romano
Connector Staff
Western Education’s sophomore album, “Restless Dreams,” continues to solidify the band’s dance rock sound. The album, only seven tracks long, could be considered an EP for its short playtime. Regardless of the length of the album, the band has released their next logical step for their sound. While approaching songs similarly to their previous releases, Western Education has found how to further cement their unique style. This album is unlike other releases because it has a short introduction on the first song.
“Running Wild,” the first track on the album, opens with feedback sounding like doors creaking. The eerie style of this opening does not foreshadow the entire album, however. A searing guitar riff comes in frantically after about 20 seconds of the creepy intro. The atmospheric song with a beating rhythm lets the listener become accustomed to Western Education’s second album’s sound.
“Skin Deep” has a pulsing drum beat like a Two Door Cinema Club song. The synth, found throughout the entire album, comes through on the pre-chorus of this song. The sputtered guitar melody in the verses make for a more interesting and captivating track. This song about an agitated lover includes the lines “I want him gone by morning.” Towards the end of the song, the bridge has vocals layering over each other in an exceptional manor. All through the album, back-up vocals add to the atmosphere of each song.
“Restless Dreams” contains a few golden moments of serenity. “Stay Inside” provides one of the most pleasing piano breakdowns that an indie band could ever deliver. A similar piano tune wraps up the song. A harp-like instrument starts “Vampire Hours.” This track, playing just over two minutes, seems to breathe as it progresses. A minimalistic xylophone can be heard throughout the song making it feel like a lullaby at times. These two songs are the most different from the rest of the album.
On “The Disappearance of Bobby Walten,” the listener will find a spiraling chorus with a familiar sounding melody played on the guitar. Though the band is far from a British invasion group, this song has elements from The Beatles’ “White Album.” In the same guitar part during the chorus, one could make a connection to a few “White Album” tunes. Another key track on the album, “Different Animals,” has a jangly quick paced verse. It is a sweet tune, but changes direction on the chorus. Though these two tracks are integral to the album, most songs contain similar core aspects.
On “Restless Dreams” a few elements are constant. Most tracks include back-up vocals that complement the lead vocals in a satisfying manor. The guitar tone relating to lead and rhythm on the album is persistent. Every song has moments of introspection. The band’s sophomore album keeps true to their dance and synth sound from start to finish. Western Education may have released a short album for their second full release, but each song fully delivers to the listener’s satisfaction.
