On its debut EP, o0O0o0O0o, Oberhofer ties a strong knot with synth-pop and secures a promising future for a full-length debut. The band sets its sights on the horizon, outfitted with a colorful pop palette, its sails attuned for deeper seas.
The indie pop scene has a new buzz band every other day and the three songs on the ten minute EP doesn’t distance the band from the rest. The eclectic triage of influences resemble Vampire Weekend circa 2008, but the album has a sound all its own despite the familiarity.
Catchy choruses, a full band sound and quirky song titles conform to the “pushing the bar” mentality that many artists have today, especially in the colorful world of pop music.
“Don’tneedya” has a stark resemblance to Passion Pit, with a synthesized core and polished high-pitched vocals, while the acoustic-driven title track sounds like Avi Buffalo with a simple and infectious chorus that builds into a sunny jingle.
Oberhofer borders between conformity and experimentation with such precariousness that the smallest bells or beats become a welcome diversion. This intermingling distinguishes the band from its rational pop counterparts and brandishes an intrepidly fresh sound.
The band is docked with innumerable contenders all vying for a chance to embark on a like-minded pop journey. Oberhofer has the aptitude to securely sail to any seas it desires, as is evident on o0O0o0O0o. Its equipment is strong, but the fight to make it out of the under-the-radar musical port will prove to be Oberhofer’s biggest impediment.
