Pop/Review All Things Automatic - This Is an Invitation
All Things Automatic. Not everything's automatic, mind. There's the playground bully theme, an impending war track, the achingly empty spot where your beloved should be, a peek into your kid's world with an invitation into yours, and the struggle to spit out your soul when words fail. ATA's new tunes unpack all this.
All Things Automatic's latest EP, "This Is an Invitation," is a compelling musical journey that delves into an array of poignant themes, showcasing Belgium's finest in a new light. The EP ventures beyond the automatic, exploring the complexities of human experience with a playground bully theme, reflections on impending war, the ache of absence, glimpses into a child's world, and the struggle to convey emotions when words fall short. The result is an intimate and sonically rich collection that resonates with fans of The XX, Cigarettes after Sex, The National, as well as echoes of Talk Talk and Everything But The Girl.
The EP unfolds as a carefully curated exploration of emotions and narratives, each track offering a unique perspective on the human condition. All Things Automatic, with Luuk 'Shameboy' Cox producing, ventures into a new musical space, weaving intimate melodies subtly laced with bass, guitar, and synths. The sonic landscape they create is both evocative and inviting, providing a canvas for the emotive stories embedded in each song.
The EP's thematic diversity is one of its strengths, offering listeners a multifaceted experience. From the playground bully theme that taps into universal experiences of adversity to the contemplation of an impending war, the EP tackles subjects that are both personal and globally resonant. The emotional depth of the tracks is complemented by the trio's musical prowess, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
Fans of The XX, Cigarettes after Sex, The National, and similar acts will find a comforting familiarity in All Things Automatic's sound. The influences from iconic bands such as Talk Talk and Everything But The Girl add an additional layer of sophistication to the EP, establishing a sonic bridge between past and present.
In conclusion, All Things Automatic's "This Is an Invitation" EP is a testament to Belgium's musical prowess, offering a finely crafted exploration of heartfelt themes. The trio's ability to navigate intimate melodies and diverse narratives while maintaining a cohesive sonic identity makes this EP a standout addition to their discography. If you have a bit of heart-space to spare, "This Is an Invitation" invites you into All Things Automatic's world—a world where emotion and music seamlessly converge.