Embracing the Echoes: Silversun Pickups' Enduring Soundscape on "Tenterhooks"
The Unwavering Musical Trajectory
For a band commemorating two decades since their inaugural release, titling a track "Running out of Sounds" might seem ill-advised. Yet, Silversun Pickups, with their seventh album, Tenterhooks, appear to navigate this irony with a certain oblivious serenity. They continue to explore the same sonic landscapes they've cultivated for twenty years, treating their debut as an sacrosanct template.
Timelessness Amidst Shifting Tides
Contrary to many rock ensembles approaching their fifth decade, Silversun Pickups on Tenterhooks show no signs of desperately chasing contemporary trends to maintain relevance. Nor do they indulge in nostalgic reflections on their past or contemplate mortality. Instead, the Los Angeles quartet remains steadfast, weaving ethereal harmonies with dreamy, distorted guitars, as if time itself has stood still since the 1990s.
The Shadow of Past Inspirations
A subtle paradox emerges: Silversun Pickups were not, in fact, architects of the '90s musical dream, a reality that contributes to the pervasive sense of stagnation on Tenterhooks. When the band first gained prominence during the alt-rock resurgence of the late 2000s, their compelling rhythms and inherent vitality made their 2006 debut, Carnavas, feel remarkably fresh. However, as the years progressed, their increasing polish created a divide between their foundational inspirations and their evolving output. This gap widened significantly following their collaboration with producer Butch Vig, renowned for his work with alt-rock icons like Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins. Vig's studio expertise further refined any remaining raw edges, contributing to a smoother, yet less distinctive, sound.
The Continuity of Collaboration
Tenterhooks marks the third consecutive album produced by Vig for Silversun Pickups, highlighting a comfortable and seamless working relationship. He meticulously crafts their signature overdriven sound, intertwining fuzzy guitar riffs and electronic flourishes with the poignant vocals of Brian Aubert and Nikki Monninger. While the album features variations in tempo and mood, from the elevated new wave feel of "Au Revoir Reservoir" to the energetic "Wakey Wakey" and the shimmering "Witness Mark," Vig's fluid production ultimately lends Tenterhooks the impression of a continuous, uninterrupted composition.
The Familiarity and its Fissures
Within these cosmic sonic explorations, there are undeniable moments of enjoyment. For listeners predisposed to such a blend, the fusion of dream-pop harmonies and gritty guitars can offer a comforting, almost immersive experience. However, this very familiarity also underscores the passage of time for Silversun Pickups. It's not a lack of intensity—catharsis has never been their primary focus—but rather a persistent re-exploration of concepts present since their inception. Vig's masterful production imparts a polished sheen and impact, yet his era-specific nuances inadvertently amplify a pervasive weariness on Tenterhooks, making the album feel stagnant, as if the band is trapped in an unending loop. Perhaps, when one consistently trades in the sounds of yesteryear, the well of new sonic ideas is destined to eventually run dry.