[9/10]
We Are The In Crowd released their debut album a whole 3 years ago, so their fans have had a long wait for the second album, ‘Weird Kids’. Having toured with the likes of All Time Low and Yellowcard, as well as playing the main stage at Reading and Leeds festival, We Are The In Crowd have certainly been picking up fans. Question is; was the wait worth it?
The album starts with Tay Jardine’s husky voice singing along to a beautifully stripped back accompaniment in ‘Long Live the Kids’. I have to admit, it gave me shivers. And then the guitars build up, the drums kick in, and suddenly the pop-rock sound that the band is known for returns. Personally, I think it’s a perfect first song as it sets the vibe for the rest of the album.
The next song, recently released single ‘The Best Thing (That Never Happened)’ is incredibly catchy and slightly more angsty, with lyrics such as ‘so toxic, you ain’t nothing but a prick.’ I’m sure everyone will have a certain person in mind when listening to this song, and won’t be able to resist singing along.
Stand out songs for me include ‘Come Back Home’, allowing Jordan Eckes to take lead vocals during the verses, and ‘Windows in Heaven’, a slower and slightly darker song. ‘Come Back Home’ demonstrates beautiful harmonies between Eckes and Jardine, whilst also being a calming break with a slight country feel to it. Likewise, ‘Windows in Heaven’ also provides beautiful melodies, which again, made me shiver. A simple guitar melody and drum beat put the focus on Jardine and the lyrics. Written about Jardine’s late father, the lyrics will relate to anyone who’s ever lost someone, and will no doubt move anyone who listens to it. In contrast to these calmer songs is ‘Dreaming Out Loud’, with a heavier beat, guitar riffs and more rocky sound. Jardine has an incredible voice, and these songs really demonstrate the extent of her versatility.
What initially attracted me to the band were the unique dual vocals of Jardine and Eckes, and this album continues the formula. Although the majority of lead vocals are Jardine, ‘Come Back Home’, ‘Remember (To Forget You)’ ‘Attention’ ‘Dreaming Out Loud’ and ‘Reflections’ give Eckes a chance at lead, whilst ‘Manners’ provides a call and response between Jardine and Eckes. The harmonies provided by the male-female vocals really make We Are The In Crowd special.
Overall, this album is incredibly catchy, and guaranteed to have you singing along. All the songs are slightly different, from the pop-rock that you can dance to, to the melodic and softer songs and then back to the rock; there’s something for everyone. ‘Weird Kids’ is definitely worth the 3 year wait, and if you’re a fan of All Time Low or Paramore you will absolutely love this album.
By Livi Jones
