Baydream are a Hamburg, Germany-based indie pop rock act who has featured once before on this blog. Late last year, I ran the rule over their debut EP, Cosmos.

By Graeme Smith

Propaganda is the follow up to that EP, pushing the Baydream sound further without losing any of the unconventional charm that’s been on display from them so far. Cosmos delighted me through its unique approach, and Propaganda is no different in that regard, as the band blend genres at will across its seven quick-fire tracks.

For the new EP, the introspection is put aside, instead looking outwardly as a consumerist society that is literally destroying itself. Topics such as global warming, war, and the idea of the unknown are given due attention, tempered by some soft and thoughtful instrumental arrangements.

Doves & Guns kicks things off with a moody, atmospheric and experimental moment. The interesting vocals are part-rapped, part-spoken and part-sung in a composition that is equal parts pop and hip-hop. From there we dive headlong into a deep, unexpected journey that takes us from dreamy, bittersweet highs (No Tomorrow, Take Care) to devastating, melancholic lows (House on the Rocks, Mourning). Autopilot is a particular highlight, with its unhinged guitar solo and hard-hitting lyrics, as is psychedelic and expansive closer Global Warning.

Propaganda is a collection that always keeps you guessing what comes next. It truly is impossible to label in terms of genre, which is quite the feat in a world in which everything now seems to have a label. Perhaps more importantly, it’s a record with something to say, and its appropriately cynical message resonates in a world that seems to be falling apart around us. If you’re looking for a way to process your societal trauma, then this is the EP for you.

The EP is out now via Cosmos Records and you can check it out below.