Hailing from the other side of the world in Christchurch, New Zealand, it’s taken a while for us to discover the music of The Response. Their new album is a case of better late than never.

By Graeme Smith

The duo’s new album, Novel Idea, is introduced through the quirky pop rock of its title track. The ’80s, ’90s and modern day all make an appearance in its vibrant composition. Emotionally, it’s tied together by smooth, wistful vocals that deliver lyrics that speak of reinvention and learning from ones mistakes.

Hollow Branches slows things down a little while keeping plenty of texture. All Of My Flaws injects an infectious guitar riff and driving rhythm. 40,000 Day and Night is rich with lush electronica. Throughout the emotion stays highs and a theme of moving on from regret stays ever-present.

There’s social commentary in the form of New Pair of Pants (Coming Collapse) and hypnotic experimental pop in Circles Within Circles. You Never Run ups the ante with some fuzzy bass while Over The Moon is a groovy, memorable highlight. Far From Figured Out ends things with heady layers and sense of reluctant hope.

For fans, it’s been a bit of a wait for this album as the two members of The Response (producers, songwriters, and multi-instrumentalists Victoria and Andy Knopp) released music under different projects. I can only imagine it’s been worth the wait. Novel Idea certainly proves a scintillating introduction to the band for me. The album is out now and you can give it a listen below.