Toronto born, Chris Thorogood presents his debut record ‘A Very Special Christmas’ which is not (as the name suggests) a Christmas album but instead an unusual take on minimal indie/synth-pop.
Opening with ‘Boss Fight’, one of the better tracks here, it is clear to see a Metronomy influence however unlike them Thorogood brings little in the way of interest, with the lack of colour and vibrance on this track setting the scene for the rest of the album.
Many tracks throughout this record have an exiting idea at their core, with many sporting ear-worm choruses, however, the majority of cuts are missing that little slice of ear candy which would entice a second listen and support the narrative of the project
The production on this album isn’t terrible and it is definitely a pleasant-sounding mix, however aspects such as the faux-acoustic drums feel thin and paired with the monophonic bass melodies which are laced throughout nearly every track, the album is left sounding one dimensional.
I must commend the bass and guitar playing throughout which is excellently delivered and shows great musicianship from Thorogood – most notably on ‘A Long Way Off’
‘A very Special Christmas’ offers very little throughout its nine tracks and despite sparks of potential throughout and a clear understanding of concise song writing being occasionally shown, I would love to see more risks taken with regards to song structure and overall instrumentation in order to capitalise on Thorogood’s confidence and humour which is littered throughout the record.