Sambassadeur – Migration

The gleaming pop of Sambassadeur is an authentic retreat to blissful, melodically rich and joyful music. With the opening sparkles of “The Park” one knows that they will be taken on an enjoyable and glistening journey through some of power pop’s illustrious and dazzling music. And while the music on Migration may not be the most moving, let alone the soul-searching affairs some other music is, one thing is for sure, it’s pretty dang good.

A Swedish band that take their name from a French singer-songwriter is certainly a bit puzzling. However, there is no confusion in the band’s identity as a bonafide talented group of musicians. The production is polished with pristine drums and all of the instruments jump out at you. A gem like “Something to Keep” glimmers with hummable synths and the song’s bridge is a melodic joy.

The music on this short full-length is both engaging and radiant. It never reaches heights of amazement or even elevation but it serves its purpose in delivering enough great songs to amass one solid collection. While “Subtle Changes” sounds like the perfect pop song, “Final Say” sounds like the 80s club hit that is being released twenty years later.

The lone cover on the album is a sweet rendition of “Fallin’ in Love.” The music is wistful but the lyrics hopeful and the music flourishes with strings and brightly colored guitars. This is followed by the title track; a down-tempo beauty. Where the vocals are double-tracked, the music is tender and renders a magical feeling. The band masterfully craft great pop song after great pop song and their impressive instrumentation is something to behold. The song shines even though it never possesses a true chorus because of the band’s magnetic personality.

The only setback is in the way things sound nearly too organized. The music is so carefully arranged that it’s almost suffocating. While “That Town” sure is a proficient song, the formulaic and prudent approach hinders its full effect. This doesn’t bring down the album too much though because when the downsides are this miniature, it usually signals that you are doing a lot of other things right.

Everything reaches a peaceful ending with the tranquil album closer, “Calvi.” It’s the album’s instrumental song that doesn’t require words to provide a poignant release. With the somber guitars, the gorgeous horns and bass, even the floorboard squeaks and doors closing showcase a sincere and genuine band. It’s a fitting end to an altogether earnest, heartfelt, pleasing album.