Bob Moses

Days Gone By

BY Calum SlingerlandPublished Sep 18, 2015

7
Fusing elements of two different genres in a seamless, coherent fashion isn't the simplest of musical processes, but Brooklyn-via-Vancouver duo Bob Moses take that challenge upon themselves by merging electronic production with a more traditional songwriting approach in putting together their first full-length record. Coming out of New York's club scene on the back of successful singles and EPs, the transition to a longer format isn't without its hiccups, but the partnership of Tom Howie and Jimmy Vallance still have more than enough to offer musically.
 
Steering away from writing outright club tracks, the electronic elements of Days Gone By remain largely unobtrusive, driven by delightfully detailed bass and drum patterns. Opener "Like It or Not" and the two step-influenced "Nothing At All" are bolstered by active bass lines and thin percussion, providing a space for the duo's soft vocal harmonies and memorable piano and guitar hooks to sink in. This proves important for their lyrical work that, as many of the track titles imply, leans towards melancholic, personal subject matter. Feelings of regret permeate the self-aware "Talk" and the lounge-oriented "Before I Fall," while "Too Much is Never Enough" tackles indulgence and "Tearing Me Up" tells a tale of infidelity and temptation.
 
These themes pair well with the sonics, yet have a tendency to wear thin at points over the hour-long listen. Toeing a line both musically and lyrically between the darkness and the dance floor, Days Gone By is perhaps best enjoyed in the later hours, whether you're in your own head or out of it.
(Domino)

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