Futurecop!
Hopes, Dreams & Alienation
(Kiez Beats)

Hopes, Dreams & Alienation, the new album from UK’s Futurecop!, is a pulsating, beat-heavy electro-pop affair. With a charisma reminiscent of mainstream ’80s pop culture careless cheerfulness, the apparent nostalgia and optimism is decorated in fiery synths, bombastic bass lines, an ’80s rock vocal sensibility and is immediately infectious. Futurecop! consists of Manzur Iqbal and Peter Carrol who became acquainted with each other while at university. The two have also enlisted a few vocalists on the album that add to its giddy party flair. “Manic Pixie Dream Girls” features vocalist Patrick Baker. Despite the catchy chorus, fidelity to a party pop rock styling decorated in synthesized regalia, interestingly, the lyrics seem to be shrouded in heartbreak. Shards of keys rain down on the track “Maladaptive Daydreaming,” giving it a glittery, energetic vibe. The stripped-down acoustic track made alive with the sensual raspy tones of singer Kristin on “Superheroes,” is fresh yet moody romanticism while “Coming Home,” featuring Neverstore is more formulaically indie rock wrapped up in an endearing acoustic simplicity.