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Jun 23, 2010 Issue #31 - Spring 2010 - Joanna Newsom By Frank Valish

With its debut, this Chicago-based, neo-psych four-piece nearly achieves the trippy sonic masterpiece it seems to have envisioned. Referencing ‘60s pop, ‘70s psychedelia, and ‘90s shoegaze, Apparitions often hits its mark. “Good Feelings” is all blissful vocal, swirling guitar, and percussive cacophony. “Oh, Ivory!” is almost Beach Boys-esque with its innocent melody, accented by backing piano and strings. And “Deyci, Right On” plays as the band’s mission statement, its slow burn introduction segueing into the hazy vocals and electric guitar shimmer of the song’s midsection before it all fades into ether at six minutes. Occasionally, the band misses its target. “Fever Dreams” is danceable and slick, and “Drunk Kids” sounds a bit too much like it’s sung by one of the kids the title references. However, all in all, Apparitions is an ambitious and satisfying debut. Hopefully, these young artists will grow to further inhabit their influences and solidify their sound. (www.myspace.com/lightpollution)

Author rating: 6/10