Climates– Movie Magic

Some might call a release of seven tracks an EP, but there was a time in music history that seven songs could be considered an album, and Climates’ debut album Movie Magic definitely feels like one. The trio, consisting of Theadora Curtis (lead vocals and bass,) Molly Schoen (guitar) and Keira Zhou (drums) have been together since late 2019, and now have a perfect lineup of tightly wound songs bookended by a fitting opener and closer, packed with meat in the middle.

Self-described as “glitter grunge,” the band mixes lovely harmonious vocals with fuzz and grit. Curtis’ airy vocals show a maturity and cleverness along with the harmonies. Rather than being pure echo, the vocals are layered over a driving mix of guitars and a solid bottom end. The deft, wandering lead guitar accents never overshadow the other instruments and blend into the vocals like another singer. (I am interested in seeing them live and how they treat the mix here as a three-piece.)

Musically, there is not much rest, although there are some quiet spaces where the drums and bass can show off. My personal favorites were the songs “Prize,” “End of Nights,” and “Doves.”

Climates (photo by Maxwell Brown)

Movie Magic is a well mixed, solid offering that showcases Climates’ musical talents and songwriting skills. You can check out the record on Soundcloud or Spotify, and catch Climates on February 3rd at The Broadway along with Fat Trout Trailer Park, Pamphlets, and Grand Army Reapers.

Movie Magic is out now on all major streaming platforms