ALBUM REVIEW: “Voyeur” by Saint Motel

July 10. 2012 | By Gina Cargas

Saint Motel
Voyeur
[Self-released]

For all you unlucky non-Californians, Los Angeles is a mythical city. The movies paint it as sprawling, luxurious, and a bit dirty. Of course, this stereotype is actually fairly accurate. So it’s no surprise that garage-pop fourpiece is based in LA. The indie pop band is fast-paced, glam, and occasionally grimy — everything we’ve come to expect from the beachside music mecca. Their debut LP, Voyeur, is a perfect and eclectic mix of LA’s best qualities. Lush, cheerful, and often grungy, Voyeur is an exuberant collection of indie insta-hits.

Voyeur deals with largely optimistic themes like love, lust, and friendship — and the positivity is infectious. Whether frontman AJ Jackson is melodically trilling on poppy tracks like “Daydream/Wetdream Nightmare,” or brilliantly layering vocals on catchy standout “1997,” Voyeur hits the mark precisely. Drawing on influences that range from big band to calypso, it offers stunning variety while still remaining consistent.

Saint Motel have been big in the LA scene for a while, and Voyeur might be their ticket to national success. It’s a stunning success for a first LP — and a perfect summertime soundtrack.

  • The Owl Mag | The Best Indie Music News, Album Reviews, and Free MP3s