Music Critique: Forgiving Spree by Slowly Slowly

Slowly Slowly’s latest album, “Forgiving Spree,” marks a departure from their early pop punk sound, embracing a more upbeat and pop-rock vibe. Collaborating with renowned producers like Courtney Ballard, Suzy Shinn, and Jonathan Gilmore has elevated the album to a new level of sonic quality, drawing inspiration from bands like 5 Seconds of Summer, State Champs, Panic! At the Disco, Weezer, and The 1975.

The album shines with catchy tracks such as “Gimme The Wrench”, “How Are You Mine?”, and “That’s That”, showcasing lead vocalist Ben Stewart’s emotional and powerful vocals. However, despite Stewart’s vocal talent, the album lacks strong musical hooks and could benefit from additional backing vocal harmonies. The production tends to blend tracks together, creating a cohesive but somewhat monotonous listening experience.

Stewart’s songwriting shines through on this album, delivering heartfelt and relatable lyrics reminiscent of bands like Coldplay and The Killers. While the songs on “Forgiving Spree” are enjoyable and accessible to fans of all ages, they may not have fully capitalized on the potential for dynamic song structures. The absence of traditional features like bridges and modulations leaves the tracks feeling somewhat predictable.

Despite these critiques, “Forgiving Spree” has already seen success, debuting at number one on the ARIA Australian Album chart. The album’s bright and inoffensive sound has resonated with audiences, showcasing Slowly Slowly’s potential for mainstream success. However, some listeners may feel that the album could have benefited from further refinement in the studio to enhance its overall impact.

Fans of Slowly Slowly can catch the band on tour in April 2025, with dates scheduled across Western Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria. As the band continues to evolve and refine their sound, “Forgiving Spree” serves as a testament to their musical growth and potential for future success on the pop rock scene.