Urban Addicts - Happy
Alternative/Alt. Rock, Rock
Canberra, Australia
Overall Impression: Despite what the name may imply, there's something marvelously dark about "Happy" that makes for a fascinating listen. Urban Addicts carefully juxtapose their thematically bright lyrical themes with a brilliantly darker musical aesthetic to create an inspired piece of songwriting that is further elevated by strong performances and a great amount of style and flair.
Strongest Point(s): As already mentioned, the track has a certain edginess to it which certainly works in its favor, and this sharper edge is down to some interesting melodic and harmonic choices that help give "Happy" its distinct character. From the subtle chromatic shifts in the main lead guitar melodies to the harmonically broodier chord progressions, it is elements such as these that lean heavily into the track's alternative rock roots, giving the song its somewhat "against the grain" style which certainly helps set it apart from other similar styles tracks. Contrast also plays an important role in the track and it's great to see that a lot of thought has gone into how the texture of the song can be altered in order to strengthen the arrangement and provide further interest throughout, whether this is from changing up the instrumentation from section to section or the further layering of new melodic ideas, the song always feels as if it's both progressing and maturing, the result is a listening experience that is filled to the brim with a great amount of detail and intrigue. The performances are also definitely deserving of high merit, and it's clear that there is undeniably strong chemistry between each and every musician, and you can really feel this synergy shine through the music. Excellent work!
Target Audience Appeal: Fans of alternative rock will find a lot to love about "Happy".
Artist target suggestions: The Smashing Pumpkins, Franz Ferdinand, Muse, Queens of the Stone Age, Alice In Chains, Them Crooked Vultures, Kasabian, Royal Blood, Red Fang, Screaming Trees, The Kills
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About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.