EP REVIEW: Chapters Of An Open Heart – Goldview
To establish elaborate concepts of life within a trio of tracks can be nothing short of musical genius. Alternative outfit GOLDVIEW may have managed such a feat with their latest release. Chapters Of An Open Heart is short but straight to the heart. It’s a fascinating blend of the rough-around-the-edges punk and soft-around-the-soul pop – the surface level of opening the discussion, above the deeper and stronger layer of feeling. It’s a formula that’s been repeated without fail for years upon decades, but there is a reason; don’t fix what isn’t broke and don’t change what the fans love.
The latest single Chemical is placed central in the trilogy, and it works as it brings together starter Believe and closer Brave. A three-minute venture that has a chorus so catchy it’s contagious, and will run through the brain like the most pleasant of migraines. Scattering harmonies and backing vocals lift the tune to the heavens, bringing every word out in the most memorable and brightest manner. Something gentle and springy, but with the right level of energy; manageable and malleable.
There is a heavier influence of that dance/pop fusion within Believe; not unlike the soundtrack of the 2010s mainstream scene. The melodic magic within the chorus, the energetic beats of the percussion, and the near-stereotypical romantic lyrics scream boyband, but the power and the intensity threaded throughout scream rock group. The acoustic-esque bridge following into vocalising flashes young adults to their teenage years, and today’s teens to their childhoods. It’s a song with the potential to be enjoyed by all, remembered by all and loved by all.
Brave concludes the EP and captures the entire record in this power-pop grip. Surrounding Chemical in two of the lighter and brighter sounding songs sneaks an ‘immature’ sound past even the most metal of heads. There is no more guilt in this pleasure. This is about letting go, living life, and not caring who sees. To rework what vocalist Trevor Schmidt belts in this particular track: “Why can’t you just be brave?”
With the doom and gloom of the alternative scene, take a step back and admire the world. Express those emotions without it being forceful or painful. Let the ease and freedom of pop take control, just for 10 minutes of the day. Let GOLDVIEW take control.
Rating: 9/10
Chapters Of An Open Heart is out now via self-release.
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