ALBUM REVIEW: Cinema Paradiso – MOBS

It’s not often you can say the song you’re listening to was written in the mindset of The Terminator or Ferris Bueller, but Melbourne-based indie-pop band MOBS have taken originality to the next level with their first album Cinema Paradiso.

Taking inspiration from classic 80s and 90s movies, MOBS have written every track from the viewpoint of a main character. The opening track, I’ll Be Back, plays on Schwarzenegger’s classic catchphrase from The Terminator franchise. The lyrics of this song play on the character’s confusion on where he is, and his adventure with love. The music is mainly synth, as you would expect from music inspired by these decades, yet it is mixed with modern sounding vocals from the lead singer Jordan Clarey. The hooks are incredibly catchy and the drums create a really atmospheric rhythm. This song is going to be running through your head for a while, and will definitely be a crowd pleaser.

The next song, I’ll Find Another You, is influenced by the 90s classic romantic drama She’s All That. The lyrics and the slow drawn out synth sounds are full of emotion, which really reflects the tone of the film. The big thing that stands out from this album is the songs really encompass the feelings of the characters they are representing, through the tone of the music and vocals, as well as the lyrics. This concept is very original and a pleasant change from regular break out albums. Along with the album itself, the band has created movie posters for each of the songs in the style of their particular film. This dedication to a concept is admirable and makes the whole experience of this album much more pleasurable.

The main single from this album, Big World, is based around the film Honey I shrunk the Kids, playing on the idea of nostalgic pop. The funky grooves used throughout these songs result in a truly memorable and captivating album, as they really sound as if they have come straight out of an 80s or 90s movie. This song in particular uses strong clap snares and well thought out electric synth, paired with great vocal talent, to create a really enjoyable track. A key theme of this album is feel good pop, as it would almost be impossible not to come away feeling uplifted.

Cinema Paradiso works so well because the tracks are really entertaining from start to finish. The synth melodies and great hooks are riddled with nostalgia, as well as the fun concept running throughout the songs. This originality will get MOBS noticed by music and film lovers, as they merge two forms of popular entertainment into one seamless package.

Rating: 8/10

Cinema Paradiso is out now via Rude Records.

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