DeathPop is an indie rock band based out of Phoenix, AZ, featuring Joel Zonoozi (lead vocals/guitar), David Nelson (lead guitar), Carlos Arellano (drums/vocals) and Chase Lund (bass). DeathPop formed in 2019 at the very start of the pandemic. During lockdown, the band quickly began work on their debut EP Nothing to Stop. The band created the EP with a live sound in mind as they were eager to get these songs out in front of audiences as soon as possible. The band drenches in their sound a lot of indie rock, alt and shoegaze influences from bands like Minus the Bear, Nirvana and Beach House. The band takes their inspiration from these aforementioned bands and takes the sound a step further by putting in their own takes, backgrounds and experiences, giving the music a personalized air. With their unique interpretations, DeathPop gives new order to the tried and true.
Nothing to Stop starts off with “Intro” where synths and scatterings of guitar and percussive instrumentals settle into the groove of this introduction. The sounds meander for a bit, sounding loose and airy. Up next, the band hits it right away with reverb-drenched vocals from Zonoozi and a hazy full-band backing from the other members on “Nothing To Stop (Bubba’s Song).” The band’s music feels very indie rock in vibe. As the band’s energy here feels very slow burning, the track takes its time in evolving. The band sets the course for what is to come in their following songs. Some sparse guitar riffs and synths sound out in the background on “Punk.” As Zonoozi’s vocals softly arrive, you can really feel the music coming together. This felt like another slow burn with the track taking its time in unraveling. “Rest Your Heart” sounds more upbeat and livelier. The uptick in pacing really points to a revved energy. The piano and vocals sounded like a great pairing. The catchy background ‘ooh-ooh-oohs’ were a highlight. I enjoyed the energy of this piece greatly. On “I’ll See You Around,” some moody guitar riffs sound out here. Next, the distorted vocals sound out to great effect. The vibe then changes up for a catchier and more contagious tune. The harmonica highlights a laid back sound as strings and horns gives this track something extra in vibe. DeathPop is proudest of their effort on “I’ve Wasted So Much Time.” Starting off with a slow burning buildup, the sound then makes way for a more sprawling approach with big-sounding guitars. More of their hazy and indie rock and pop energy is played out here. Lazy horns and organ send listeners off with this excellent closer. Originally having started out as a bedroom type of project, the band has gone on to expand their sound, including in their music more complex ideas such as horns and strings. A little bit of everything, the project features both simple and a more involved sound here on their EP. DeathPop doesn’t just reiterate past influences, they imbue into their recording the best of what the band members have to offer. At the core, the recordings play on the players’ strengths, producing something each of them can be proud of. This was a solid undertaking and I look forward to seeing where they go from here.
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