On
Holiday in Rhode Island,
the Softies continue their simple and sweet variety of heart-on-their-sleeve indie pop. On "Sleep Away Your Troubles," the melody between
Rose Melberg and Jen Sbragia showcases the duo's simple and refreshing instrumentation and musical approach. The songs remain introspective and focused on the frailties of human relationships. The band never bought into the standard indie pop sound, instead focusing on a storytelling approach, rarely singing much above a hushed whisper. Even somber songs like "These Sad Times" and "The Beginning of the End" retain dashes of optimism intertwined with the overall melancholy mood of the songs. The duo's wistful songs like "Me and the Bees" and the title track create a poignant and mellow environment that few bands are able to match.
Melberg's soft and tender vocals lead the way on all of the tracks. With this disc,
Melberg solidified herself as one of the most disarming vocalists in the indie scene. ~ Stephen Cramer