There is something wonderfully pure about “Lover,” the new single from Philadelphia’s wonderfully yet strangely named Police Touch Museum. Pure in the sense that it really cuts to the heart, the essence of what pop music is all about—melody and infectiousness, groove and poise—without succumbing to any of the gimmicks of the modern age.
Perhaps better described as indie-pop, or a gentle take on indie-rock, certainly by modern standards, “Lover” actually echoes with the sonic strains of more innocent eras. There is something of the effervescent lilt of the Beach Boys about it, something of the 60’s revivalist sound of the Paisley Underground movement, something of a Beatles beat, and never does the song include anything that isn’t necessary to the song—a place for everything and everything in its place.
“Lover” is simple rather than sophisticated, graceful rather than grand, accessible rather than ornate, and these are always the right sonic choices, creating an understated eloquence, elegance, and accessibility, which is always the preferred way forward.
In an earlier time, we would call this pop music, but considering today’s pop music is full of gizmos and gimmicks, overused cliches, and tried and tested sonics, dance routines and celebrity guest appearances, it’s best we avoid such associations. But in an ideal world, the charts would be full of such sweet, serene and seductive sonics as this. Maybe it will be again. This may be the opening move of a long-overdue pop renaissance! We can but hope.
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