Review: Glitterer — ‘Glitterer’
Posted: by The Editor
New York’s Glitterer manifested seemingly out of nowhere. The band formed this past August, releasing their self-titled debut. The solo project captures Ned Russin in a more vulnerable, introspective state than his usual place at the helm of alternative/punk prodigies, Title Fight. Glitterer takes the shape of moody bedroom-pop that manages a balance between pensive self-analysis and sparkling instrumentals.
Though grounded in a familiar sound, Russin’s influences shine through to create a unique interpretation of the genre. The songs on Glitterer’s self-titled record are heavily driven by bass and synthesizer. The record’s opening track, “Self Portrait,” pairs the ethereal, synthesized hum with the bass guitar’s low groan, all while choppy, electronic drums pulsate in the background. Russin’s vocals sail across the picturesque musical landscape, seamlessly flowing into the rest of the album.
The album’s midpoint, “Little Song,” strips back the bells and whistles, leaving room for the vocals to take over. Russin’s lyrics, though short and ambiguous, possess an alluring poetic quality that invites you to search for a meaning where one isn’t immediately available.
Glitterer, though a vast departure from the previous work Russin is known for, is a brilliant take on the bedroom-pop sound. Russin’s inquisitive lyrics and less-is-more songwriting style forces him to make every word count. While still a side-project, Glitterer’s debut is a thoughtful collection of songs that is both inspiring and perplexing.
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Yong Los | @yongxlos
