An emotively melodic rock attraction shines all through The Sofa Cushion EP, coming by way of New Orleans-based band Olivia Valentine. Led by Philip Korosec and Geoff Hrabar, Olivia Valentine’s consuming alt-rock sound additionally explores a wide range of private subjects — from Hrabar’s love for his beloved, departed canine on “RIDE” to the deeply affecting “Tangerine Couch,” written about Korosec’s father’s struggles with alcoholism. The EP additionally incorporates a new lineup for the band, which now contains bassist Larissa Dietzel, multi-instrumentalist Thomas Dietzel, and drummer Daniel Bishop.
“And Now Simply Be” opens the EP with gripping momentum, increasing steadily from pit-pattering percussion and twangy guitar layers. “Blades of grass brush throughout his weary toes, this floor that after was sacred now hurts his toes,” the vocals set free with intrigue, excelling thereafter into an emotive, string-laden flourish. The opener completely excels in each trickling guitar ardor and orchestral illumination — its manufacturing reminding of In Rainbows, in that sense. The monitor’s music video additionally enthralls, completely cinematic in its forested and aquatic settings alike; the depictions of being submerged resonates inside the monitor’s ardent conclusion, particularly.
The highlights proceed constantly thereafter, with the following “RIDE” dazzling with its trendy synth integrations. Chugging guitars and “don’t take it away,” vocal pleading rise into “at all times on my thoughts,” chorus; a bursting array of guitars and hooky vocals meld splendidly right here, as does the “you trip,” synth-forward repetition. “RIDE” is especially spectacular in its synth-rock aesthetical match, with playful and atmospheric tones alike mingling melodically with spirited vocals and chirpy guitars. A tribute to Hrabar’s beloved, departed canine, Journey, the monitor is a stirring success that emphasizes the worth of life within the face of loss of life. Equally sturdy manufacturing qualities — with compelling guitar/synth interaction — captivate throughout “My Information Again,” one other EP spotlight, and one which caught our ears again in July. Its trendy, Metro-set music video additionally immerses — a setting seemingly mirrored on the EP’s eye-catching cowl artwork.
A powerful one-two punch closes out the EP. “LOVE IS NOT” grips with its hovering, psych-friendly rock character, exuding heartfelt radiance in its expressive guitar tones and vocal precision — balancing lush hypnotics and invigorating anthemics. The finale “TANGERINE SOFA” touts a cool blissfulness in its bouncy bass line and glistening keys, engrossing particularly within the “I do know my approach,” bass-y swell into a stunning conclusion, the place wordless vocal layers and crisp guitars intertwine seamlessly. The Sofa Cushion EP is a radical success from Olivia Valentine.
