Winnetka Bowling League - ‘Sha la la’ review
Winnetka Bowling League by Paige Sara
Earlier today Winnetka Bowling League released their debut album Sha La La showcasing the band's ability to craft evocative and introspective music while exploring a variety of emotional landscapes. Formed by Matthew Koma, a seasoned songwriter and producer, Winnetka Bowling League brings a fresh yet nostalgic sound to the indie pop scene. Koma, who has penned hits for artists like Zedd and Shania Twain, channels his lyrical prowess and knack for catchy melodies into this project, creating a distinctive sonic identity for the band. Alongside Koma, the lineup includes his brother Kris Mazzarisi on drums, who brings a tight, rhythmic foundation to their sound.
Matthew Koma is known for his work as a songwriter and producer in the pop and EDM worlds. With his new band, Koma brings a more personal and introspective approach to his music, blending indie pop sensibilities with thoughtful lyrics and engaging melodies. The band's name, which evokes a sense of suburban nostalgia, reflects their penchant for crafting relatable and emotionally resonant songs. Their music often explores the complexities of relationships, personal growth, and the passage of time, making them a standout act in the indie pop scene.
"America in your 20s," the opening track, depicts the turbulent path of navigating early adulthood. The words of the song create a tapestry that depicts the highs and lows of living in your twenties by fusing a number of vivid imagery and reflective thoughts. A combination of keyboards, percussion, and guitars make up the instrumentation, which creates a melodious background that improves the narrative. The interplay between the driving rhythm and melodic elements mirrors the uncertainty and excitement of this life stage, making it a relatable anthem for anyone in their twenties.
"Astrology and Context" delves into the poetic exploration of personal context within the vast universe. The lyrics' contemplative style encourages listeners to consider the relationships between personal experiences and the stars. The song's musical arrangement, which consists of mellow guitars, pounding drumming, and evocative keyboard parts, is dreamy and reflective. The soulful and emotive vocal delivery adds an extra layer of depth, making "Astrology and Context" a thought-provoking piece that combines intricate storytelling with a captivating sonic experience.
In "Breakfast for Dinner," Winnetka Bowling League presents a sense of mystery and contemplation through their narrative. The lyrics paint a picture of unexpected situations and fleeting moments, intertwined with the intriguing concept of having breakfast for dinner. A mysterious twist is added by the images of crashing engines and shadows, which entice listeners to decipher the song's deeper meanings. The thoughtful lyrics are complemented by the soundtrack, which combines delicate percussion with melodic guitars to create an engrossing listening experience that encourages thought and contemplation.
The song "Handsome" is full of reflection and melancholy. The song's lyrics transport listeners to a place of introspection by arousing feelings of emotion and desire. Long after the song has ended, the eerie and atmospheric sound—which was created by combining percussion, guitars, and ambient elements—remains in the mind. The song demonstrates the band's ability to write evocative music that has a profound emotional impact on listeners with its gloomy undertone and realistic narration.
Following, we listen to "Happy Adjacent". It explores themes of happiness and self-discovery with a reflective and contemplative vibe. The poetic lyrics, paired with dreamy and atmospheric instrumentals, create a rich and emotional listening experience. The mix of melodic arrangements, including guitars and drums, enhances the introspective quality of the track. The lead singer's emotive and vulnerable
vocal delivery draws listeners into the journey of self-exploration, making "Happy Adjacent" a captivating blend of thoughtful lyrics and melodic instrumentals.
"Jesus Saves" explores memories, relationships, and personal experiences in a very contemplative and heartbreaking way. Poetic observations and contemplations reveal the lyrics' rich imagery and emotional depth. The guitars and drums in the instrumentals, which combine elements of alternative pop and indie rock, provide a rich musical background that heightens the emotional effect of the song. "Jesus Saves" combines moving instrumentals with narration to create a compelling listening experience that is enhanced by the song's melodic and lyrical depth.
The lovely song "No One's Ever Kissed You" examines feelings and private moments in a relationship. The subtleties of interpersonal relationships are captured in the lyrics, which evoke feelings of desire and discovery. The dreamy and nostalgic atmosphere, created by the guitar and drums, complements the heartfelt lyrics. The blend of vocals and instrumentals captures the essence of the emotions being expressed, making this song a touching exploration of personal connections and introspective feelings.
The bright lyrics, lively instrumentation, and captivating plot of the title tune, "Sha La La," make it a standout song. The catchy "sha la la" chorus draws listeners in with its contagious energy, adding a distinctive and enjoyable touch. The dynamic sound, featuring guitars and drums, complements the upbeat vibe of the track. The storyline captures a moment of joy and celebration, inviting the listener to join in the excitement. "Sha La La" is a delightful blend of lyrics, instruments, and narrative that stands out as a lively and engaging single.
The captivating tune "We're Not Having Any Fun" explores more profound feelings and experiences. A mood of discontent and reflection is captured in the reflective tune and lyrics. The narrative develops in a thoughtful manner, engrossing the listener in a voyage of introspection and emotional investigation. The tune invites listeners to consider their own experiences and feelings as it progresses from an introspective atmosphere to a moving realisation.
The last track, "We're Broken Up But Even More Together Now," portrays the complications of a broken relationship while retaining a deep emotional bond. The term suggests a paradoxical scenario in which the people's emotional distance from one another has bonded them. The song's lyrics examine the fallout from a separation, emphasising residual emotions and the special link that endures. This song serves as a powerful conclusion to the album, tying together the themes and emotions explored throughout. The mix of nostalgia, reflection, and hope provides a reflective and poignant ending to the musical journey, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
Overall, Sha La La by Winnetka Bowling League is a thoughtfully crafted album that blends introspective lyrics, vivid imagery, and diverse musical styles to create a rich and engaging listening experience. Each track offers a unique perspective on life's moments and emotions, making this album a captivating journey from start to finish.
Sha La La from Winnetka Bowling League is out now via Local Weather/MDDN Records and available on all good streaming platforms.
