you what? - 1662 & All that

You What?

1662 and All That
self-released; 2013

3.5 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

I have very little information about the band You What? and their release 1662 and All That. I do know the recording started in 2005 and the mixing was completed in 2013. So it’s obvious that they took their time with this material and it’s obvious within the first song. The production is stellar and is packed with a large array of sounds. It effortlessly combines electronic and organic elements into pop songs full of catchy melodies and rhythms. 

The first song on the album is called “Dark Matter,” which relies on heavy electronic percussion and a standout vocal melody. It’s a thumper but it’s also quite a dance song as it leans towards more of a typical pop format. The next track “Green Light” fits in a lot of instrumentation however it still sounds like it has a lot of space. Funky guitars, a surplus of synths and drums make the grooves on this energized number.

“Finished” is a bit more relaxed combining some prominent funk bass with horns while delivering one of the most engaging verses on the album. The vocalist sings “The moon obscures the blazing sun / The dark descends on everyone / Anoint His head with sacred oil.” “The “Great Divide” is a fun song if a bit cheesy. I felt like this song could have benefitted by having a bit less instrumentation in it. “Psalms” is a decent song that talks about god and which has some quirky lines such as “Praise Him for Johnny Rotten Praise Him for the Rolling Stones” and “Looking at the smiling faces / Couldn't clap my hands in time / Find a seat in heavenly places.” 

The album ends with “Snake,” which follows a similar format to his previous songs that combines electronic and organic instrumentation. It’s another pop/rock song that has elements of dance music. 

Overall, the album is enjoyable. Not every song is golden but there are enough quality moments here that you will want to take a listen. 

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