Cryptograms a diamond in the rough
Published Feb. 23, 2007
Deerhunter's second album Cryptograms delivers a double dose of this strange young band. Cryptograms suffers from some type of schizophrenia, considering it is broken down into two completely different ideas. Although the two are different, when combined, they form a psyched-out pop album.
The first half is loaded with ambient and psychedelic sounds that can be heard in the intro, fittingly titled "Intro." These opening tracks take up space in Cryptograms and separate a lot of the good vibes that seem to travel in its songs. "White Ink" is filled with darker ambient tones but still seem lifeless. "Red Ink" is another ambient track that's long-lived with nothing to remember.
Then there are tracks such as "Lake Somerset," which has a great stomp to it and some synth love. It has a thumping bass line and trippy backdrops.
"Octet" sprawls through psychedelic drifts and then ends with bouncing voices. The track is hypnotizing, and the nearly eight minutes go by quickly.
"Spring Hall Convert" carries a pop rhythm and is both listenable and addicting. It begins slow, with slight guitar pricks and weeping vocals, then picks up with more intense guitar, steadily growing throughout to create a much more identifiable song.
"Strange Lights" is a complete 180 compared to the beginning of Cryptograms. It's more focused on the lyrics instead of the music, and it shows another side of Deerhunter. Even though the vocals are a central point, it ends with another sprawling tail full of ambience and randomness.
By the time that "Hazel St" plays, listeners will feel as if they're hearing a different album. The band now playing seems completely different than the one it was introduced as. The ending track, "Heatherwood," is enthusiastic and positive. Within 15 seconds, there is a poppy and energetic rhythm flowing. Deerhunter's pop sound and vocals come together to create one of the best songs on Cryptograms.
Cryptograms is actually a very cryptic album considering its intent. The intro sells it as some psych jam, but the later songs are well constructed and danceable.
With Cryptograms, it is clear that the band is young and still forming it's own sound, but it seems to do very well in the transition. Deerhunter shows two personalities, but both create great depth for the band and show its true artistic ability.
This album is undoubtedly a big step for Deerhunter, especially considering it is only its sophomore release. It is a fitting stepping stone to greatness.