Talk Talk Talk
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
An electronic rooted outfit comprised of Aaron Sternick and Jesse Smith, as Welcome Center the pair birth a very interesting and often nostalgic brand of synth fueled rock that meshes post-punk, dream-pop and even New Wave odds.
“Parasite City” starts the listen calm, even dreamy, with soft piano alongside swift percussion that quickly builds into a buzzing post-punk meets modern electro-pop hybrid that’s quite infectious.
The middle track, “Burn”, flows with charming synth and indie-rock ideas unfolding with both warmth and adventurousness, where breathy singing aligns with hazy instrumentation.
The final track is on par with the greatness of the work before it, as “Losers” finds itself more indebted to pop amid a bouncy and upbeat delivery that welcomes brass from Weston Smith into the busy, textured climate.
A listen that would be ideal to be played alongside New Order, The Postal Service or even Jukebox The Ghost, Welcome Center certainly have an inclination for EPs, and I can’t see anyone not fully enjoying these songs, but let me say that just 3 is not enough when you’re as exceptional as this. Thankfully, repeated plays never out welcome their stay.
Travels well with: Bizou- Tragic Lover; Palm Ghosts- Lifeboat Candidate