Punching In A Dream – The Naked And Famous Punching In A Dream – The Naked And Famous (Free Download / Buy)

My search to purchase Passive Me, Aggressive You by New Zealand’s The Naked and Famous took me on what I can only refer to as the “Kiwi Journey of Failure and Glory”. It involved trying to trick iTunes into believing I was from New Zealand, fearing that I had somehow permanently switched my online store location, failing miserably overall, then realizing that bandcamp really doesn’t give a damn where I’m from. Needless to say, I accomplished my goal in the end, and I can tell you with some certainty that the battle was worth fighting.

The music (and I mean this in the most positive way possible) reminds me of some of my guiltier pop pleasures. It’s bouncy, easy to digest on an instrumental level, and gets me moving. What gives The Naked and Famous and edge, though, is the lyricism and distinctive nature of each song. For the same reason I enjoy pop acts like Stars and Passion Pit, I enjoy this band: the depth to the lyrics is the perfect compliment to the lighthearted music behind it. Unlike most of their peers, these bands create music that makes a lasting impression and transcends the party atmosphere.

“Punching In A Dream” and “Young Blood” are two tracks that truly embody this spirit. I was immediately drawn in by their clever synth riffs, but the deeper substance of the songs kept me listening. This is particularly true for “Young Blood”, which, with its dynamic transitions, mixture of male and female vocals, and driving drum beats, completely swept me away. For those of you not willing to fake your country of domicile, “Young Blood” is actually available in the US as a single on iTunes.

If you want to check The Naked and Famous out, they’re actually in New York this weekend, playing shows at Mercury Lounge on the 19th and Brooklyn Bowl on the 20th. These are two of only four US dates before they head back to New Zealand!