Roosevelt - Young Romance

Roosevelt
Young Romance
2018
Spotify

Roosevelt's self titled debut was a revelation. I still listen to many of those songs daily, and when I saw him life it was simply magical. That's why this album was essential to see where his music would go. Young Romance is a lush synth extravaganza. The tones and sounds warm the ears and soul in this really euphoric way. There is something natural and easy about Roosevelt's music even though it is about as electronic as you can get. The synths pound and the music cooks, but none of feels like a innovation from the last album, and none of the songs are really any better. The album doesn't feel like a slide or a back step, but more so like more of the same. Maybe that isn't a bad thing, but you still find yourself missing something new and exciting. I find myself singing along like I know these tracks by heart, but it's not because I've heard them, it's because they are predictable. His formula is pretty clear and He sticks to it pretty tight on Young Romance. There are definitely standouts like "Yr Love" and "Under the Sun" but I'm not sure if those would have even been singles on the last record. He doesn't feel like He is out of ideas, he just feels stuck in them in a way. "Illusions" however is pretty much a mess with a convoluted arrangement and this distant buzzing that makes the whole thing feel just kind of off. It's even more confusing given who tight Roosevelt's prosecution always is. He isn't one to muddy things up just for the sake of it, which is why this one feels so strange.

Speaking of his production, when it comes to vocals it's really mesmerizing. His voice turns into this expanse thing consuming all in front of it, the problem on Young Romance is the things He's saying aren't all that compelling. The music is so lovely and complex that dumbed down lyrics make it feel just that: dumbed down. "Lucia" similarity reaches for the middle and falls flat in trying to do so. What gives me hope however is the albums closer "Getaway" which really shines on this record. The song takes it's time and allows itself to be unfolded rather than a punch to the mouth, and it works. It's the first track that doesn't feel like it is sepia toned and tailor made to connect with people first discovering love. By this point Roosevelt needs to have some more complex ideas, because the musical element feels like it's already there. Not a bad album, especially for a sophomore release, but not the stunner that was his first record unfortunately.

7.0 out of 10