Indie-pop band Hoops, from Bloomington, Indiana, has recently released their newest album, “Routines.” Released on May 5, 2017, “Routines” is the full-length sequel to the group’s series of EP releases.
Originally the project of guitarist Drew Auscherman, Hoops has grown to include a full lineup, all of whom share vocals and trade instruments at different points throughout the album. “Routines” is the perfect follow-up Hoops’s early EPs, which were released on cassette tapes aptly named “Tape #1,” “Tape #2,” and “Tape #3.” This album melds the indie-pop electronic influences of their previous releases with a more guitar driven-sound that separates them from the piles of homemade synth jams that infect websites such as Soundcloud and Bandcamp.
The album opens with “Sun’s Out,” an upbeat alt tune Hoops has also released a music video for. One definite standout track, “On Top” blasts the listener with indie-pop optimism by way of inspirational lyrics and a feel-good hook. Hoops is arguably most successful as a band when making use of this simple, yet catchy positivity. The flow of the guitar sound comes through at its most intense on the instrumental “Benjals.” This guitar push that sets “Routines” apart from previous Hoops material is most distinct here.
Later on the album, mellow tunes such as “Underwater Theme” smooth out the overall sound with layered electronic percussion and distorted vocals reminiscent of artists such as Santigold, alt-J, and The Purity Ring. The defining track, however, is “Burden.” Guitar with direction and several interesting electronic licks accompany characteristically upbeat lyrics about turning the stress of a new setting into positive energy. The listener can only hypothesize, but the line “It took me away from all my comfortable routines” could have inspired the name to the entire album.
Overall, the album “Routines” is full of great material and holds massive promise for Hoops. Though they might not share the indie fame of some of their musically-similar peers, Hoops will soon be a recognizable name. If they continue to release music akin to “Routines,” their popularity and success is sure to grow.
