By Leah Kaplan
Following their 2006 self titled debut album Beach House and two other albums in the ensuing years, Devotion (2008) and Teen Dream (2010), on May 8, 2012 indie rock band Beach House arrived in the city of Miami at the Fillmore Jackie Gleason, one of the many cities in their Bloom tour, to follow up the release of their new single “Myth.” Opening for the indie contenders was a one man synth band called Zooms. His minimalist approach to synthesized beats and heavy dub-step bass, left the crowd in subtle murmurs and mild disappointment, only adding to the anticipation for the main act to arrive.
Victoria Lagrand, lead singer of Beach House, gathered the crowd back together with cheers and salutes as she performed “Troublemaker” from the newly released Bloom album. Her voice echoes with reverb and ethereal whispers, reminiscent of a sirens call to sea. Lagrand’s skills on the keyboard provide a refreshing dynamic to the group. Adding to the dream pop group’s impressive vocals was guitarist Alex Scally, utilizing intricate pedals and rifts to set the stage for a day on the beach. The band solidified the crowd’s approval with songs from past albums like “Norway,” “Walk in the Park,” and “I’ll Take Care of You,” reappearing for an encore with “Turtle Island,” “10 Mile Stereo,” and “Irene.” The new album Bloom speaks of love and paradise lost, enveloping us with poetic tunes to escape into the waves of Lagrand’s romance.
Formed in Baltimore, Maryland in 2004, Beach House was signed to Sub-Pop Records and the duo has made a name for themselves, providing vocals for bands like Grizzly Bear and featuring at All Tomorrow’s Parties Festival in 2011. With the release of their new album Bloom, having been one of the most anticipated albums of 2012, Beach House leaves a wake of trance and artistry for fans to follow.
