Gentle keys make a shy entrance before gaining momentum from a skatting symbol as “House” feebly begins. Yes, feeble, but it piques your curiosity, too. It’s like someone clearing his or her throat so quietly you almost don’t hear it, but it catches your attention all the same. What do they deem so important as to finally speak up?
In the case of Kindness, project of Londoner/Berliner Adam Bainbridge, he’s trying to convey an innocent vow of giving everything he has, tangible and otherwise, in the name of love. Words of “I can’t give you all that you need / but I’ll give you all I can feel” resonate stronger with each repeated chorus until a brief pause — time enough for a deep breath and release — lays way for a final run through, newly emboldened with confidence and the aid of a little more bass drum.
At once soulful and endearing, “House” serves as a stellar indicator of the quality work being put out on World, You Need a Change of Mind. The ’80s-inspired album is all Day Glo and dreamy and may just cause that change it seeks to inspire — at least in terms of your new favorite band.