CURRENT ISSUE

DONATE ADVERTISE SUBSCRIBE

Reviewed by Kane Power

Megahertz: Sun In My Solar System

Reviewed by Kane Power

Megahertz: Sun In My Solar System

Recorded and mixed by Arnie Van Bussel at Nightshift Studios, this is the Christchurch indie trio’s second release after their 2015 EP ‘Transmission’. Megahertz luxuriate in a signature NZ indie rock sound over 11 songs and 42 dreamy minutes, focusing on vocal melody and hypnotic structure to keep ‘Sun In My Solar System’ spinning. Predominantly cruising at a classic mid-tempo groove, the band provides a genuinely compelling moment with third track The Point, a reflective tune with an insightful chorus lift. Recent single Curiosity provides further interest with another well-constructed chorus, a chromatic descending vocal melody mimicked by both guitar and bass that sticks in your head for hours. There are a few slower almost-ballad tracks to be found here for the new (and not so new) romantics. The title track lyrics express joy and gratitude, while Snitch is full of solemn reflection. Production values are good but the album would benefit from better mastering to smooth and remove some errant frequencies. That said the album retains qualities that make indie rock what it is, and too much polish might subtract from the atmosphere Megahertz have obviously intended to achieve. A well-constructed, thoughtful release from a hard working band.