Album Details

• Artist: Tribella
• Album: Thirteen
• Label:
• Year of Release: 2010
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: archelon on 2010-02-05

'Thirteen' is Tribella's second release, following on from their debut EP (released last year) and it's an odd blend of something that is certainly pop but also something else - not pop-rock, not pop-punk. Maybe pop-folk? Pop-indie? Whatever it is, the pop most certainly comes first, but that's not to say it's all sugary cheer and no substance.

The album kicks off with '13', a chilled, dreamy tune with nice layers and interesting rhythm - just enough to make you listen but not enough to catch you off guard. The second track on the album, 'WTKN', kick-starts the mood a little more with a funky riff and plenty of Tribella's signature reverb. The lyrics are poppy but clever, and the music is... well, actually, it's excellent. Toe-tapping, dance-y stuff.

The album loses momentum somewhat towards the middle with 'Skate Park Instrumental' which seems like a bit of a filler song, but Tribella are soon rescued by the lovely tinkle of 'Rev Script', all crystal-clear riffs and breathy vocals. It ends on a high too with 'Deal Breaker' - we're very far into the indie-pop spectrum here, but even immersed in a world of retro sweets and brightly-coloured plastic the album never loses its charm, or it's poise.

It's easy to see why these three ladies are generating so much support. The album sparkles with energy and even though they never vary the soundscape too much they seem to have found endless ways to make it fresh and interesting. And now, if you don't mind, I'll be getting myself some Cadburys and sinking back into the colourful world of 'Thirteen' for some me time. 

User Reviews and Comments