the goosebumps - art of freedom

The Goosebumps

Art Of Freedom
self-released; 2014

3.8 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Who says you can’t have an original sound in 2014. The Sheffield, UK based band The Goosebumps melds post-punk, guitars, dance and electronics on their inventive debut entitled the Art Of Freedom.The majority of the songs are grounded in dance and burst with an unbridled exuberance. They successfully combine electronic and organic components in a very similar way that Of Montreal does. The sounds they make are fun, quirky and almost feel cartoonish in some ways (that's not a bad thing). At the center of the songs is the female vocalist who carries the songs and has a voice that works very well with the tone of the music.

The album kicks off with one of the most original sounding songs on the album entitled “Love Song - Boys and Girls,” which combines multiple synths, distorted guitars, bass and organic drums. Within the first minute the band packs in a lot of changes that easily grab your attention. When the verse hits the bass bounces and the guitars shred and the vocalist sings “Boys and their toys, Can I squeeze it press it shake it? Does it shine? make a sound? Can I take it to the bedroom? Is it mine for all times now? Can you leave us alone? “ The song is unpretentious fun and doesn't take itself too seriously. 

“Robots (In the City)” is a catchy song flirting with electronic elements and a dance vibe. The lyrics are fun to follow along with and talk about surveillance and technology. “A Regular Day” sheds the dance vibe in favor of indie rock that lies somewhere between Saint Etienne and Belle and Sebastian. They continue to switch things up a bit with “Feeling Fine,” which is actually the most melancholy song on the album. It was nice that they injected a song that had a bit more emotional weight into the mix. I really liked what they did with guitars and piano in this song. “Something In Between Us,” ”Come On Sunshine” and “The Happy Years” all  contain a similar upbeat energy that the band has made their staple.

The Goosebumps have delivered a professional sounding, impressive debut that feels like a party. If you are looking for a fun, carefree ride you just found your ticket.

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