Michele Mendez
Australian group The Faim has finally dropped their highly-anticipated debut EP Summer Is a Curse, which includes new single “A Million Stars.”
Produced by John Feldmann (blink-182, All Time Low, Good Charlotte) and recorded alongside Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz (on “Saints Of The Sinners”), Twenty One Pilots’ Josh Dun, blink-182’s Mark Hoppus, and 5 Seconds of Summer‘s Ashton Irwin (on “Summer Is A Curse”), Summer Is a Curse shows influences of each of these big-name musicians while also also allowing The Faim to showcase their own distinct sound.
Beginning the album is smash hit “Summer Is a Curse,” which originally released earlier this year in May. The anthem-like track serves as a perfect introduction to the EP, as it speaks of new beginnings and experiences. The song also reflect the group’s early stage of their careers, with lyrics such as “I can’t see what the future holds, but I wanna know.” Co-written by 5 Seconds of Summer’s Ashton Irwin, “Summer Is a Curse” is a song meant for large venues with its addictive, sing-along chorus.
Next is “A Million Stars,” which is more of a laid-back track. Like “Summer is a Curse,” the track is sure to be a fan-favorite with its melodic chorus. Having a bit of reggae influence, the song gives listeners a taste of the group’s experimentation with new sounds, which we’re sure they’ll continue with their full-length album, set for a 2019 release.
Unlike the group’s previous songs, “Make Believe” showcases The Faim’s more vulnerable side, with its slow-tempo lead by a piano. The lyrics long for a better tomorrow that breaks the mundane routine of everyday life, which can be filled with intense feelings of loneliness. The song demonstrates a new side to the group that we have yet to see until now.
Contrasting the softer sound of “Make Believe” is “I Can Feel You,” which welcomes the listener to let go and scream its lyrics. Following is “My Heart Needs to Breathe,” which is less pop-sounding than the other songs on the EP. It speaks of frustration and anger and is reminiscent of the group’s earlier more punk-sounding releases.
Closing the EP is laid-back song “When it Comes.” It is just the right song to finish the album, as it’s about being unsure about what’s next. The Faim sings, “what happens next we don’t get to choose,” and then repeats “be ready, be ready.” The song takes listeners full circle, since both the title and closing tracks share the theme of being unsure of the future.
Overall, Summer Is a Curse cements The Faim’s place in the pop-punk music scene, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for them. If you haven’t checked out their EP yet, take a listen below.
