THE TEMPER TRAP – THE TEMPER TRAP
On their eponymous second album, The Temper Trap succeed in staying true to their indie-rock sound without excessive emulation of their hugely popular debut, Conditions. The Sea is Calling is the perfect example of this balance: Dougy Mandagi’s vocals are stunning on this beautifully intricate song, but like most of the album, the song is more sombre and tonally darker. Admittedly, there is a clear predilection for festival-friendly, sweeping anthems that can often sound slightly formulaic and tiresome. However Trembling Hands is the sonically lush exception. Its emotionally charged buildup will grip the listener and take them along for the soaring ride – a reminder of the growing richness and talent of this Melbournian five-piece. (KD)
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