trainboy’s latest album ‘I Am Not Myself’ sees an exploration of humanness through an indie-rock sound that is sure to touch your heart.
Handbags
A bright and vibrantly crafted layer starting off the track, ‘Handbags’ sets the tone for the rest of the album with its indie pop-rock sound. A luscious texture drives the song that is informed by sweet guitar riffs, steady drum patterns, in a relaxed, laid back style.
Rollercoaster
Similar sounding guitar riffs as the previous track opening the song, ‘Rollercoaster’ makes you feel like you are part of an indie coming-to-age film. Fun lyrics that are so very singable characterise the song, and offer you a chill listening experience.
Green Tea
A slight shift from the previous tracks, ‘Green Tea’ has a unique blending of retro musicalities and the 2000s soft rock sound. The guitars in the song especially feel like a blend of The Beatles and The Smashing Pumpkins. The solo sections in the song come unexpected and a very pleasant one at that.
Gravity
Reflecting the chaos of new emotions, of young life and all the confusions that come with it, ‘Gravity’ is playful and real at the same time. The song moves through sections of density which is contributed by the drums that pick up and shed pace accordingly.
Rescue You
A guitar riff largely reminiscent of the early 2000s punk rock scene, ‘Rescue You’ employs a sweet balance of grit and relaxed musicalities. Solid basslines drive the song accompanied with interestingly layered guitars and drum patterns that ground the track.
Song 13
Starting off with a shimmering acoustic guitar, ‘Song 13’ maintains a luscious texture and a consistent rhythm and pace. The song brings in layers not all at once, but gradually, which helps with the dynamicity of the track, and keeps it from getting monotonous.
Fire Drill
‘Fire Drill’ does interesting things musically, bringing in the piano which brings in a 70s rock sound. Furthermore, the song has elements that come together smoothly and yet maintain their distinctness. The shifts that come in with the guitars will really be worth your time.
Take Your Time
Twangy guitars starting off the track, ‘Take Your Time’ mirrors similar themes of confusion and chaos around growing up and living life. It does so in a gentle, calm manner that feels more like a shoulder to rest your head on instead of a blow in your face.
Worst Days (Of My Life)
The title might seem ominous but the track ‘Worst Days (Of My Life)’ itself will make you think differently with its smooth, vibrant melodies. The instrumentation doesn’t try to embody a melancholic sound and instead chooses brightness and a fun energy, creating a unique paradox.
Perfect World
A perfect end to the album, ‘Perfect World’ feels like the apt converging of what the entire album is all about. Not losing out on its bright, reflective sound, the song embodies a sense of acceptance of circumstances and choosing to move ahead with it.
A beautiful thematic album, this one deserves a listen and then many more without a doubt.