Grade: B-
Indie pop duo Cults released its second studio album just in time for its performance at Voodoo. “Static” ironically sounds a lot more polished than the band’s debut self-titled album. Whether the neatness of the new album is an improvement or not is up to the listener. “Cults” seems to indulge more in the indie genre and “Static” is more bubblegum-like, equipped with handclaps and spry guitar riffs. Madeline Follin’s sickly sweet voice reaches ethereal proportions on “Shine a Light.” Unfortunately, this album forgoes any vocals from Brian Oblivion, missing the opportunity for some rad duets. The lack of another voice also makes it more difficult to distinguish when one song ends and the next one begins. While overall a respectable sophomore attempt, “Static” doesn’t have quite as much bite as its predecessor, which makes for less inspiring music.