“California, here we come” reverberates with the angst of the 2000s, as this catchy track accompanied the intro for The OC. The exponential success of this song came from Phantom Planet, an alt-rock band that’s actually been around since 1994. Now, twenty-six years later, the gang is back together, pushing their 12-year hiatus from songwriting out to deliver us with Devastator. (Also – did you know Jason Schwartzman was in the band back then?!)
We begin Devastator with leading single “BALISONG.” An emphatic chorus embraces a pitch change to enhance its singability, and sprinkled-in synth meshing with the closing guitar riff is a nice little touch. “Party Animal” is a solid jaunt with an interesting choice in its 7/8 time signature. Driving guitars and a great solo add some flair to this track.
The vocals get to shine in “Only One,” as Alex explores his range with some delicate high notes; unfortunately, he says the words “only one” more times than I can count in its 4 minutes. “Leave a Little Light On” layers vocals making use of each earbud near the end, a production technique I will always give props to when bands make use of it.
“Time Moves On” is the most instrumentally-compelling song on Devastator, adding some runs that aren’t just run-of-the-mill. “Through the Trees” gives off a folk vibe, hammering away at the toms to a climactic chorus. “Torture Me” takes 3 minutes to pick up, but it leads to a strong ending that’s worth the wait.
I really like the guitar tone and delivery at play in “Dear Dead End,” making this my highlight track off Devastator for standing out among the rest. “Waiting for the Lights to Change” is another example of the song title being uttered just a few too many times; it steals too much attention and detracts from the impact of the words and the rest of the elements of the song.
“Gold Body Spray” is a somber piano/orchestral piece that gets the job done, definitely a curveball from Phantom Planet but it works well. To close out Devastator, we get “ROTK,” which just seems like another track instead of a triumphant album closer.
Phantom Planet’s Devastator has all the bells and whistles to make for an ample return, but it comes off a bit uninspired in its execution. There’s certainly some good songs like “Party Animal” and “Dear Dead End,” but some filler to go along with it. I hoped for a bit more of an explosive return with such a gap, but Devastator seems like just another Phantom Planet record. Check it out for yourself and let us know what you think!
Rating: 6/10
A review copy of Devastator was provided by Anti-Gravity PR.
