"Atlas Genius is fast becoming a mainstay in the new mainstream indie music genre."

Artist: Atlas Genius

Album: When It Was Now

Label: Warner 



Release date: Feb 19 2013

Reviewed by: Charis Whitbourne

Two years ago, Atlas Genius from Adelaide Australia exploded over the Internet with their song Trojans. Being a popular choice for indie blogs, they signed a record deal with Warner Music and now they are here to stay with their debut album When It Was Now.

Mixing the dreaminess of Imagine Dragons with the musical energy of Foster the People, Atlas Genius is fast becoming a mainstay in the new mainstream indie music genre.  Filled with plenty of synth and a dreamy danciness this album is a throwback to the 80’s. Beginning with Electric, they start off the album on a good note, bringing a catchy energy with the falling and rising synth. Continuing on with If So, Backseat and Trojans, it is evident why they were able to make such an impression with one song as they are able to take addicting indie music to a new level and do it well. While every song is similar there are subtle differences to each song that make this album worth listening to. From the slight reggae touch of Trojans, to the soulful backup singers of Backseat, each track has something unique to it that shows the depth this band has to offer.

Listening to the rest of the album is like a dreamy haze of beautiful music as all the songs blend together through the smooth vocals of lead singer Keith Jeffery. The guitar swells of Centered On You, catchy lyrics of All These Girls and acoustic guitar of Through the Glass remind you of simpler times, while When It Was Now brings back the synth and the 80’s. Ending off with Symptoms we get the indie pop anthem reminiscent of Two Door Cinema Club through catchy guitar riffs and slight distortion.

So if you have those awkward moments when listening to music on your headphones in public where you just can’t stop smiling, get ready because this album instantly makes your day better. While not a deep or heavy listening album, it will make for great driving music and time spent with friends. It is light, cheerful and in all senses of the word fun.

Track listing

1. Electric
2. If So
3. Back Seat
4. Trojans
5. Through the Glass
6. On a Day
7. Centred On You
8. Don’t Make a Scene
9. All These Girls
10. When it Was Now
11. Symptoms

Read our review and see the pics from Atlas Genius' show in Toronto with Imagine Dragons HERE.