ALBUM REVIEW: FROST CHILDREN'S HARMONIC SHIFT IN "HEARTH ROOM"

BY: JESSE ZAPATERO

The Prost siblings exhibit a knack for crafting delicate melodies throughout "Hearth Room" 

Frost Children's album "Hearth Room" is a showcase of the sibling duo's ability to blend diverse influences. The acoustic sound, insular atmospherics, and intimate arrangements mark a departure from the hyperactive maximalism of "Speed Run." The opening track, 'Lethal,' introduces a digital symphony that evolves into an alt-rock anthem, setting the tone for a more unplugged acoustic experience.

Tracks like 'Marigold' and 'Bernadette' showcase their softer side, deviating from the indie-sleaze revival and embracing a more sincere, twee sound. The album's familiarity draws listeners in, prompting them to decipher the influences while being distracted by the nagging question of what each song sounds like, a testament to its contemporary charm.

'Bob Dylan,' encapsulates Frost Children's attitude toward counterculture. Over a swirling Midwest emo riff, the dream sequence involving Bob Dylan confronting commercialized New York streets captures the band's rejection of conventional authenticity.

As the album progresses, tracks like 'Birdsong,' 'Oats From a Mug,' and 'Got Me By the Tail' reveal the Prost siblings' versatility. Frost Children seamlessly navigates between rock and electronic elements, creating a dynamic and engaging album.

The album concludes on a heartwarming note with 'Offer My Love,' an ode to love featuring babbling brooks, crickets, and iridescent vocals. The finale encapsulates the sincerity and sentimentality that defines the album. Frost Children's dual release of "Speed Run" and "Hearth Room" serves as a time capsule, capturing the myriad stimulations and emotions of daily life in New York.

"Hearth Room" marks Frost Children's shift towards emotional immediacy. The album radiates genuine presence and warmth, showcasing the Prost siblings' ability to evolve while staying true to their creative essence. As they embark on a 2024 tour featuring both albums, "Hearth Room" stands as a testament to Frost Children's evolution and the changing landscape of indie music.