The otherworldly duo of Faris Badwan and Rachel Zeffira, also known as Cat's Eyes, have returned with their second album. Their sound continues to be influenced by Zeffira's background as a classical musician, but on Treasure House, it's fused with the influence of '60s girl groups, particularly on the dramatic "Drag." There are jauntier numbers on this record than on their debut, such as "Be Careful Where You Park Your Car," whose surf rock guitar expands the duo's sonic palette even further.
Cat's Eyes excel at driving, cinematic music that builds in intensity. On "Standoff," the pounding drums and rising tension complement Badwan's voice perfectly as it echoes around guitars that sound stripped from a Kills track, while Zeffira juxtaposes the harshness with her operatic backing vocals. The softer "Names on the Mountains" is carried by Zeffira's intimate vocals and romantic horns, and there's a timeless quality to the gentle, orchestral nature of "Girl in the Room," which features a heavily atmospheric outro.
The glacial pace of Cat's Eyes' music does occasionally cause the album to drag, such as in the organ heavy, "We'll Be Waiting," but that's a minor concern. On Treasure House, Cat's Eyes continue to forge a unique path, as Badwan and Zeffira blend the old with the new, pop with classical and melancholy with drive.
(Kobalt)Cat's Eyes excel at driving, cinematic music that builds in intensity. On "Standoff," the pounding drums and rising tension complement Badwan's voice perfectly as it echoes around guitars that sound stripped from a Kills track, while Zeffira juxtaposes the harshness with her operatic backing vocals. The softer "Names on the Mountains" is carried by Zeffira's intimate vocals and romantic horns, and there's a timeless quality to the gentle, orchestral nature of "Girl in the Room," which features a heavily atmospheric outro.
The glacial pace of Cat's Eyes' music does occasionally cause the album to drag, such as in the organ heavy, "We'll Be Waiting," but that's a minor concern. On Treasure House, Cat's Eyes continue to forge a unique path, as Badwan and Zeffira blend the old with the new, pop with classical and melancholy with drive.
