CD of The Week

Two Door Cinema Club - Beacon (Glassnote)

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost two and half years since Two Door Cinema Club released their debut record Tourist History. Maybe it’s because of the extensive touring they did to promote it. (They played Philly four times!) And by the end of that run, they had acquired quite the following. Their brand of fun alt/indie pop songs are very likable, and the Northern Irish trio continue that trend on their new record Beacon.

Their debut record was nearly perfect, so they had a lot to live up to, and, overall, they did quite well for themselves. Frontman Sam Halliday’s angelic vocals are featured from the very start of the first track "Next Year," and sound superb. Their catchy melodies and quick guitar work are back as well, which you can clearly hear on "Handshake." The record does take a little step forward as they added some more electronic sounds to their songs, but not too much to disturb what they already have going on. "Someday" is a stand out track, as it is a classic Two Door song with the high pitched, high tempo guitars. "The World is Watching" is a slower song that really shows their versatility. Sam's vocals sound great once again, but they are backed up with female vocals by Valentina, which really works well.

Two Door Cinema Club didn’t stray too far from what worked on their first record. Writing fun indie-pop songs is in their blood, so it’s great they didn’t try to reimagine themselves. This is an excellent follow up record from a band that could have taken a different path. The fact they continued with what worked so well is something that their fans will certainly appreciate. Be sure to check out 2DCC when they play their biggest Philly venue yet, The Electric Factory, on September 29th.
Review by Matt McGrath