Description
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Lee Gamble’s latest album, already released at the end of 2023, “Models,” explores the illusory impact of vocals and hooks on pop music, using emerging technologies to create a distinct and haunting sound. Drawing inspiration from the mysterious lingual tics of Liz Fraser, the disembodied diva loops of rave, and the hoarse rasp of trip-hop, Gamble crafts a record that is as strange and poignant as his breakout album, “Diversions 1994-1996.”
One of Gamble’s main interests in recent years has been the concept of the earworm, those catchy melodies that get stuck in our heads. On “Models,” he delves deep into the vocal music that has influenced him, from Cocteau Twins to Tricky to more contemporary artists like Future and Lil Uzi Vert. Through his exploration, Gamble attempts to extract the essence of these sounds, creating a series of radio-friendly tracks that reflect pop’s allure while also challenging its plasticity.
The album opens with the ethereal and otherworldly sounds of “Purple, Orange,” featuring a wordless, fantasy-inspired vocal. Gamble uses reverberations to create a sense of euphoria before transitioning into “Juice,” a trance-inspired track that harkens back to the ’90s. The vocals take center stage on this song, providing a focal point amidst the delirious synths and bass drops. While there are other artists exploring similar territory, Gamble manages to carve out his own emotional landscape, avoiding nostalgia and crafting his own distinct sound.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “She’s Not,” the lead single. With its peculiar, shoegaze guitars and saturated sound, the song draws us in and immerses us in its stadium-ready hook. Despite its mechanical nature, “Models” is a remarkably fluid and emotional album, evoking a sense of nostalgia and capturing personal experiences. It is undeniably British, reflecting on history while also imagining an alternate future shaped by the constant march of technology.
Ultimately, “Models” is a refreshing and hopeful record that stands out among the releases of this year. Its use of emerging technologies and exploration of vocals and hooks allows Gamble to create a unique and captivating sound. While influenced by various artists and genres, Gamble manages to craft something entirely his own, resulting in a record that is both satisfying and thought-provoking.
