Real Estate: “It’s Real”
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Real Estate are among a crop of bands that craft music that’s lo-fi and largely low-stakes. But the New Jersey group has always seemed destined for bigger things, thanks to the strong pop songwriting of lead singer Martin Courtney. They’ve taken yet another step away from their garage-rock peers with their new album Days, out October 17.
The band’s 2009 self-titled debut introduced the music world to Real Estate’s breezy M.O. Courtney sings about childhood, going to the beach, and growing up. It’s not the sexiest of subject matter for a rock band, but Real Estate have a charm that’s hard to deny. The members grew up in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and their music perfectly captures all the aspects–both good and bad–of suburban life.
Whereas their first album stayed true to mood above all else, Days is a bolder statement. The fidelity is improved thanks to producer Kevin McMahon, who’s worked with the Walkmen. The songs are focused around hooks, be it Courtney’s lilting voice or Matthew Mondanile’s surf-inspired guitar licks, but with a touch of darkness underneath. First single “It’s Real” sounds instantly classic, built with the ear of a songwriter who’s done his pop homework.
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