Album Review: LIGHTS’ ‘Little Machines’

Our favorite gnarly synth-tickler, LIGHTS, released her third studio album, Little Machines, today to an overwhelming response from eager fans and admirers alike. There is not one bad song on this album, not that there ever is such a thing in LIGHTS territory, but it just goes to show that three years of hard work and experiencing life don’t go unnoticed.

I’ve been a LIGHTS fan since I first heard “Drive My Soul” in 2008. Since then, her music has gone on to touch my life in more ways than I can express. Her 2011 sophomore effort, Siberia, was like my bible three years ago. I learned so much about myself and what I wanted out of life through that album, so when Little Machines was announced, I knew it too would follow me through this journey.

While Siberia had a lot more grit – a maze of confusion led by curiosity and a light of hope at the end of the tunnel, Little Machines explores a more lively side; proof that there are brighter days in the midst of the dark abyss.

A lot can happen in three years; Little Machines documents the singer’s journey through marriage, motherhood and the trials and wonderment of being twenty-seven. The lyrical content, as always, is immaculate. The album starts off with slow yet steady “Portal,” a rather risky choice to kick off an album with, that was derived from a poem the singer wrote. The nostalgic (and single-worthy) “Running With The Boys” sets the buoyant tone for the album, giving us a glimpse of childhood once again while current single, “Up We Go,” is easily the anthem of a generation. “It’s been a long time of this / something has got to give.” I can’t wait to sing this one at the top of my lungs during her upcoming tour.

LIGHTS kickstarted my synth obsession back in 2008. As predicted, this album is top notch in the synth department. “Same Sea,” “Muscle Memory,” “Meteorites,” and personal favorite, “Speeding” will send chills right down your spine with a joyous 80’s nostalgia that is somewhat reminiscent of her 2009 debut, The Listening. “Slow Down” and “Oil and Water” experiment with vast drums and poppy hooks that’ll have you humming along while “How We Do It” and final track, “Don’t Go Home Without Me” close out the album in an inspiring and affectionate manner. There’s no questioning that she’s in it for the long haul.

There’s no telling where an album may take you, but I’m expecting great heights and lovely sights to come out of this one.

Little Machines is available now HERE.

Go HERE for all fall tour dates and tickets!

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