Album Review: Oberhofer - Time Capsules II

At the tender age of 21 years old, Brad Oberhofer could easily be spending his time partying like most other young adults, but instead the Brooklyn-based frontman has been tucked away with his band Oberhofer to bring forth their debut record, Time Capsules II. Having already released a few singles in the past from under his parent's basement in Tacoma, Oberhofer and his band paired up with veteran producer Steve Lillywhite – the mastermind behind the production side of U2 – to assist with their latest release.

Focusing on the ecstatic rush of young love and the emotional delicacy that comes with it, the album speaks an underlying story of heartbreak and turmoil. This is evident right from the get-go with the flourishing and dramatic piano intro of HEART, not to mention the lyrics “All that I asked for was a little bit of heart/I gave you my love and you tore it apart”. The simple orchestral build leads into the shimmering '80s new wave-inspired sounds of Landline, before Away FRM U takes over with its upbeat melodies, fast-paced drums and tinkering xylophone stabs. The album takes a slight turn from the downside of love to a more positive outlook on the matter with Cruising FDR, before carrying on with the summery vibes of Gold. The slow, synth-laden sounds of Homebro conclude the album, creating a unflustered sense of satisfaction.

All in all, there isn't much not to like about Time Capsules II. It is a confident and promising debut that will leave you wondering where the next steps will be from here for Oberhofer, but for the moment, it will leave you reminiscing on that first love that stole your heart.