Cleopatrick’s “Fake Moon” Album Reviewed in DIY Magazine

Cleopatrick’s album “Fake Moon” marks a departure from their earlier sound, with a shift towards a mellower exploration of themes such as insecurity, authority, and nonconformity. While their debut album “BUMMER” was characterized by driving drumlines and crunchy guitars, “Fake Moon” sees the duo embracing lo-fi electronica, stitched structures, and soft falsetto vocals. This new direction showcases their willingness to experiment, but falls short of a fully-realized vision.

The album’s standout tracks, including ‘BIG MACHINE,’ ‘CHEW,’ and ‘LOVE YOU,’ feature melodic compositions supported by organic instrumentation, weaving a new soundscape for the band. However, amid these highlights, the album as a whole feels somewhat disjointed and pixelated. The vulnerability in Cleopatrick’s music shines through, albeit occasionally obscured by over-production and intense moments of background static.

Despite its promising elements, “Fake Moon” often teeters on the edge of greatness without fully committing. It can be seen as a bold step forward for the band, but one that lacks cohesion and refinement. In the words of Neil Armstrong, Cleopatrick’s latest effort is akin to a giant leap that falls just short of its landing.

The album showcases a willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, even if the execution is at times uneven. With a mix of experimental moments and more traditional elements, Cleopatrick’s evolution on “Fake Moon” underscores their growth as artists. While not without its flaws, the album hints at greater potential waiting to be fully realized in future releases.