Populuxe – “Nowhere Left To Go”

Populuxe is known as a band who is in constant flux. They are always reinventing themselves and if their latest single “Nowhere Left To Go” is any indicator, the band are well to creating a creative niche that is all their own. With their upcoming album Uneasy Listening, the band might have already done so. The quintet has been playing together since 1995 and collectively they have been around the scene for over 35 plus years. Now with their latest single, the band is showing us another side to their music-making, one that uses mood and ambience as an integral aspect of its sound.

Rob Shapiro takes the lead in this soulful concoction, filled with synths, guitars and drums. The sparse sound noodles around for a bit. There’s a slow burning vibe to this song as it takes its time in unfolding. I was immediately reminded of U2 and Shapiro’s compelling vocal harmonies definitely clinches this. Mid-way into the track, the number becomes more driven as the melodies and riffs come together to great effect. The band is able to ease you into an easy-going sound on this release. I loved how mellow and laid-back the sounds were.

This is the second track off their new LP Uneasy Listening to be released 12-16. The band has also scheduled a live release show “Sideshow: Uneasy Listening with Populuxe,” from Dec. 16-18 at Theater 68 in the NoHo arts district. I have a feeling that others like myself will be having “Nowhere Left To Go” on heavy rotation on their playlists in the meantime. 7/10

By My Nguyen