From The Edge Of A Life

Sleigh Bells “Favorite Transgressions”

The initial thrill of Sleigh Bells came out of the way Derek Miller’s incredibly loud and forceful tracks blasted out nuance in favor of delivering hooks with the maximum degree of urgency and physicality. As the band have progressed he’s found ways to hold on to that energy and impact while allowing for more shade and color in the arrangements, as well as room for Alexis Krauss to grow as a singer. Krauss’ approach to vocals shifted dramatically over the course of the past few records, and at this point her brash, belting voice is just as powerful as Miller’s beats and guitars. Their new EP Kid Kruschev places a lot of emphasis on her voice, and on a few tracks, completely cuts out the noise to focus on her melodies and phrasing. It’s interesting to hear the softer side of Sleigh Bells, but I’m even more intrigued by a song like “Favorite Transgressions” that contrasts that newfound delicacy with their signature moves. I love that they’ve been evolving towards what is essentially a modern take on the R&B-meets-pop-metal sound of Janet Jackson’s “Black Cat” and En Vogue’s “Free Your Mind.” It’s an incredible aesthetic that never went anywhere beyond a few hits, and it’s nice to see someone dig into it all these years later.

Buy it from Amazon.