Trevor Powers, a 22-year-old Boise, Idaho habitant, is Youth Lagoon. You'll probably hear the word "bedroom" peppered throughout discussions of his debut LP, The Year of Hibernation, whether it is bedroom-pop, bedroom-rock, bedroom project, etc.Basement DJ: The Doctor – The lo-fi album was indeed written in Powers' bedroom and subsequently recorded at a friend's house. The minimalist sound attached with bedroom projects can often evoke feelings of claustrophobia, and, given the lyrical subject matter and sparse instrumental voicing, Youth Lagoon tends to put up the four proverbial walls. However, Powers demonstrates such a talent for structuring songs and crafting melodies that many of the songs on The Year of Hibernation feature continuously layering instrumental textures that build to shimmering heights, quelling any claustrophobic feelings. The Year of Hibernation is an impressive debut; hooks, handclaps, reverb-laden harmonies and more are all here to serve as this year's official autumn soundtrack. Youth Lagoon will stop by Minneapolis on October 8th at the 7th Street Entry.
KUMD Album Reviews: Youth Lagoon
