New Music Revue: A Beacon School drops positive and upbeat dream pop on debut full-length

Arts November 1, 2023

A Beacon School
yoyo
(Grind Select)
4.5/5

A Beacon School is the work of multi-instrumentalist New Yorker Patrick J. Smith; on his debut full-length yoyo he fuses rock and techno beats into mellow yet upbeat dream pop.

What struck me first was the melodic vocals, which is one aspect of the dreamy sound, along with reverb from the guitar and techno tracks.

I also enjoyed the finger-picking jazz-style guitar riffs, a refreshing change from usual guitar sounds. The drums have a subdued, minimal pattern that drives each song and mixes well with the techno tracks.

I found the lyrics, which are about life and love, to be relatable. The album is good to chill to or listen to while studying. It has a calming, almost meditative, effect while the beats add a positive upbeat drive with an uplifting energy.