Album Review

Leon Of Athens – Global

• 30th Jun 2014

The second album from Leon Of Athens offers up ten tracks of bright and optimistic sounding electronic pop music that are built on a foundation of folky lyrics and indie beats. The man behind the name is Timoleon Veremis and he is indeed from Athens, although now lives in London. Global was recorded in New York at Grammy winner Dave Fridmann’s studio (MGMT) and produced by Tony Doogan (Mogwai, Belle & Sebastian).

There is a great deal of variety of pace on the album, although the core sound of keyboards and electronic loops backing smooth vocals doesn’t change. Opening with two previously released singles gives the album a fast start. Global has a dreamy feel, an ode to a world in crisis. The jaunty Baby Asteroid has more of a pop vibe with its synth melody and radio friendly chorus. It’s basically a good summer pop song.

Other highlights include the softer acoustic Lifeline, a beautiful love song that is tender and passionate with vocals that float over the guitar and flute sounds. Apartment sees a female vocal added to Leon’s deeper voice, giving a pleasing contrast. The twinkling electronic sounds that float in and out of Pilot give it an edgy quality. And another slower track, Sirens, has a swirling backing, giving a gentler and more minimalist backing to the vocals. The closing Dreamers uses a much bigger sound, a swell of vocals in the chorus standing out in a higher pitch as the music builds.

Leon of Athens has a lovely sound, its vibrant electronica mixing with melodic harmonies and descriptive lyrics that tell of world troubles, yet also portray an optimism for the future. He has a knack for producing catchy pop songs yet also a poetic and intelligent lyrical approach that gives them meaning. It’s a combination that works well, giving Global an upbeat and vibrant feel.

Venue: Global
Support Band: Mimosa’s Dream Records