Good Sad Happy Bad’s “All Kinds of Days”: A Journey into Intimacy and Simplicity
A New Era for the Four-Piece
In an age where economic forces relentlessly drive the quest for excess, Good Sad Happy Bad emerges as a refreshing antidote. This four-piece band, a transformation of Mica Levi’s Micachu and the Shapes, delivers a poignant exploration of intimacy and simplicity in their second album, “All Kinds of Days,” released with minimal fanfare in late 2024.
Musical Influences
“All Kinds of Days” evokes the ethereal essence of Broadcast’s spellbinding sound, the enveloping warmth of My Bloody Valentine, and the skeletal aesthetics found in the early works of The Cure. However, the contrast is stark; this album diverges significantly from the grandiosity of The Cure’s “Songs of a Lost World.” With most tracks running three minutes or less, the music is both delicate and raw, emerging from improvised sessions where the band—comprising Levi, Raisa Khan, Marc Pell (also known as Suitman Jungle), and CJ Calderwood—layered vocals atop their instrumental creations.
Exploring the Unconventional Path
While the album may seem distant from the sweeping ambitions of contemporary guitar music, it possesses its own brand of quiet ambition. The band delves into profound themes such as motherhood in “Mirror Mirror,” the experience of loss in “After.Spirit,” and the nature of change in “Turbine.” This exploration is accentuated by a blend of angular saxophone, disorienting vocal loops, and dynamic electronic elements.
Musical Experimentation
Good Sad Happy Bad’s approach is one of doing rather than merely stating. The experimental nature of the album is woven seamlessly into the fabric of the songs. For instance, “After.Spirit” pairs a delicate guitar riff with an ethereal layer of electronics and woodwind sounds, invoking the essence of shoegaze. “Shaded Tree” can be imagined as Radiohead under siege by a John Zorn saxophone outburst, while “Twist the Handle” employs a quirky synth line and submerged vocal loops to craft a treacherous soundscape, highlighted by Pell’s oddly cheerful to-do list.
Vocal Dynamics
The vocal delivery on “All Kinds of Days” reflects a similarly understated ethos. In their previous album, “Shades,” Khan transitioned from keyboards to lead vocals. However, in this latest release, the dynamic is more fluid. Khan shines on standout tracks like “Frontline,” where the melody channels the unsettling beauty reminiscent of a Syd Barrett solo project, and “Guiding Light,” which delivers a nursery rhyme infused with dreams and fragility. Meanwhile, Calderwood’s vocal loops add an otherworldly quality to the garage-rock pulse of “Lonely Well,” and Levi’s languid vocals, akin to Mudhoney on Mogadon, perfectly complement the grunge-laden “Irresistible.”
Conclusion
“All Kinds of Days” by Good Sad Happy Bad is a testament to the power of simplicity and the beauty of intimate expression. As the band navigates complex themes through their innovative soundscapes, they carve a niche in the indie guitar landscape that is both refreshing and profound. This album invites listeners to embrace the unassuming, to find depth in brevity, and to appreciate the art of musical experimentation.
FAQs
What is the significance of the album title “All Kinds of Days”?
The title reflects the album’s exploration of various emotional landscapes and experiences, suggesting a journey through the complexities of daily life and human emotions.
Who are the members of Good Sad Happy Bad?
The band comprises Mica Levi, Raisa Khan, Marc Pell (Suitman Jungle), and CJ Calderwood, each contributing to the unique sound of the album.
What themes are explored in the album?
The album delves into themes such as motherhood, loss, and change, approached with a tender and introspective lens.
How does the album differ from traditional indie rock?
Instead of grand musical statements, “All Kinds of Days” prioritizes brevity and intimacy, with most tracks under three minutes and an emphasis on experimental soundscapes.
What influences are evident in the music?
Listeners can hear influences from bands like Broadcast, My Bloody Valentine, and early Cure records, creating a rich tapestry of sound that balances nostalgia with innovation.
