Cozy Photo - Graffiti EP

Cozy Photo

Graffiti EP
self-released; 2015

3.8 out of 5

By Mike Przygoda

Graffiti by Cozy Photo is an excellent set of ‘80s synth-pop inspired gems that are constructed well and could have existed (and still could) on many film soundtracks.

“Underdog Disco” opens the EP with a very Beach House-like ‘80s dance pop complete with arpeggiated synthesizers, driving electronic beat and vocal inflections. The addition of some more modern synth tones and reversed cymbals adds a nice modern balance. “Hourglass” has some Passion Pit elements to it melodically as well as with sped up backing vocals. The whir of the bass-like synth contrasts nicely with some interesting piano lines and some swirls of sound that fall into a nice cadence at the end of each section.

“Every Day” is based around a buzzy pulsating 8-bit-like bass tone, layers of synths replete with countermelodies and a nice main melody that utilizes long held out notes to contrast with the pulsing of what else is occurring on the track. There is an Animal Collective influence strong throughout melodically and tone wise, and Cozy Photo works with it well.

“Fortress of Solitude” continues the Animal Collective inspiration basing it around a guitar-like flanged synth pattern and a title alluding to the Man Of Steel’s headquarters. The layers and differing tones of synths is impressive, each one finding its place to lock into the overall structure while not stealing attention away.

“Safari” closes the EP combining several of the aforementioned influences while even teasing some synth-y Genesis moments in the melody and Tony Banks-ish tones. The introduction of some video game like power-ups near the end are curious but end up synthesizing (no pun intended) well with the rest of the track by the end.

Cozy Photo uses and implements influences well and has written some very catchy, interesting songs. Each song is a perfect length of time, to the point, and hopefully inspiring Cozy Photo to continue writing a full album’s worth of songs.

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