Southern California'a supreme fuzz-pop duo Crocodiles haven't been the type of group to keep their focus solely on one genre. Their latest album, Crimes of Passion, strengthens their commitment to finding a suitable blend of psychedelic-pop and noise to reflect their current and often erratic state of mind. Within the first few songs, it becomes clear that the album is laced with sweet melodies slightly tainted with edgy lyricism.
For their fourth time around, Crocodiles chose the Raveonettes' Sune Rose Wagner to keep a watchful eye and add his special touch of noise-pop instrumentals to the record. The album kicks off with "I Like It in the Dark," a gospel inspired, piano-centered track spewing anti-religious sentiments. From there, "Marquis De Sade," whose title solemnly pays tribute to the influential French aristocrat, continues the group's signature pop influenced sound while featuring singer Brandon Welchez whining "I'll be yours tonight. For your crimes of passion."
The album climaxes on their euphonious lead single "Cockroach," however, in terms of lyrical content this song contradictorily and bluntly describes a rocky relationship riddled with lustful encounters. Guitar riffs open the track while a carefully placed set of electronic synths and background keyboard strokes fill the song's missing gaps. With a batch of catchy choruses again sung by Brandon Welchez, Crocodiles show that their latest album is more determined then ever to make a lasting impression upon listeners.
There's not too much standing out in the rest of the songs except for the invigorating guitar riffs in "Virgin," the mellow mid-tempo jam titled "She Splits Me Up," and the underlying questions, posed in "Un Chat D'Amour," about whether or not something is simply artistic expression or obscenity. Crocodiles prove that they not only make catchy and addicting songs, but that they are also able to capture raw emotion and transform it into refined ideas with more than enough sustenance. Crimes of Passion is a true testament to what a constant search of musical perfection yields and marks one of the group's strongest attempts.
Grade: B+
