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Apr 03, 2018 Issue #63 - Courtney Barnett By Matt the Raven

Kate Nash charmed us on her first three releases with her blithe indie pop by introducing bits and pieces from various standard rock genres and merging them with a saucy attitude and recapitulating it in an altered form. Often resulting in something new and fresh, but just as often resulting in a hot mess.

Yesterday Was Forever, Nash’s fourth LP, is no different. The predominant influencing genre here is cutesy, bubblegum pop with some fleeting hip-hop inspirations. It’s unfortunate too because the promotion for the album features its two best tracks, “Life in Pink” and “Drink About You.” The former is a garage rock burner with scrunching guitars, a catchy chorus, and a sweet pop hook. The latter is a fast-paced rocker with a bouncy chorus and Nash’s signature smartness. Both are prime examples of how spot-on Nash can be when she combines all her talents in precisely the right mix.

It should also come as no surprise that the most striking feature of this Nash release is, of course, her cheeky lyrics and sweet, London-accented voice. But while this goes a long way in captivating listeners, it can’t carry the load. Ultimately the lack of imaginative songwriting is exposed, even after only a few cycles through the listening rotation.

But you can’t fault her for trying. The music has some commercial cross-over potential that most people can’t help but like, with various electric guitars and electronic keyboards arranged into pleasing and polished pop-rock. But these pleasant tunes don’t have enough sharp dynamics to give them an edge and so end up as mostly fluff without so much substance. (www.katenash.com)

Author rating: 4.5/10