After: A Nostalgic Sound or a Lackluster Rehash?

Introduction to After

In recent months, L.A. pop duo After has captured attention on social media, prompting many to take a closer look at their music. Vocalist Justine Dorsey and producer Graham Epstein have released two self-titled EPs in 2023, embodying an aesthetic reminiscent of early 2000s pop culture. However, while their visuals may evoke nostalgia, their musical offerings raise questions about originality and depth.

The Sound of Nostalgia

An Attempt at Y2K Revival

After’s music is often compared to the iconic sounds of the early 2000s, tapping into the cultural fixation with nostalgia. Their debut EPs attempt to recreate various radio-friendly subgenres from that era, yet fail to bring anything new to the table. The duo’s aesthetic may be visually striking, but the sonic experience leaves much to be desired.

Interchangeable Tracks

The opening tracks of both EPs, “300 dreams” and “Deep Diving,” exemplify this issue. Dorsey describes “300 dreams” as her take on a “Coldplay coded” song. While the idea of breakbeat-infused Coldplay is intriguing, the execution falls short. Dorsey’s vocals resemble a feminine version of Chris Martin, delivering uninspired lyrics set against a predictable chord progression. The elements are all too familiar, making the track feel more like a museum piece than a fresh creation.

Missed Opportunities in Songwriting

Fractured Nostalgia

After’s songwriting often lacks the emotional depth that characterizes the music they draw inspiration from. For instance, EP 2’s “Where we are now” tries to convey a sense of longing similar to Frou Frou’s “Hear Me Out.” However, it falls flat with a circular metaphor that fails to resonate. The emotional weight found in songs by artists like Imogen Heap is noticeably absent in Dorsey and Epstein’s delivery.

Comparison to Influential Works

The closing track of EP 2, “Close your eyes,” aims to evoke the sentimentality of Heap’s Speak for Yourself, but instead offers a diluted version of the original’s emotional power. While the instrumentation may borrow from the same sonic palette, Dorsey’s delivery lacks the dynamic range that made Heap’s work so compelling. Instead of stirring emotions, After’s music feels monotonous and uninspired.

Conclusion

While After may present a visually appealing homage to early 2000s pop culture, their musical offerings are marred by a lack of originality and emotional depth. The duo’s attempts to capture the essence of nostalgia ultimately result in a collection of songs that feel more like rehashes than reinventions. For listeners seeking genuine emotional resonance, After may leave them wanting more.

FAQs

Who are the members of After?

After is comprised of vocalist Justine Dorsey and producer Graham Epstein.

What genres do After’s music fall under?

Their music primarily falls within the pop genre, with influences from early 2000s breakbeat and radio-friendly subgenres.

What are the titles of After’s EPs released in 2023?

After has released two self-titled EPs in 2023.

How do After’s songs compare to other artists from the early 2000s?

While After draws inspiration from early 2000s pop artists, their songs often lack the emotional depth and originality found in the works of those artists.

Can After’s music be categorized as innovative?

Many critics argue that After’s music is more of a nostalgic rehash rather than an innovative take on the genres they emulate.