Soccer Mommy Color Theory Review

If you're a fan of dreamy 90s-inspired indie rock with a contemporary twist, you've probably heard of Soccer Mommy, the musical alter ego of 23-year-old Sophie Allison. "Color Theory," her much-anticipated third album, certainly lives up to the hype. Released in February 2020, this captivating collection of songs explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, all while showcasing Allison's signature blend of punk-rock grit and melodic pop sensibilities.

At its core, "Color Theory" is a deeply personal record that grapples with themes of heartbreak and healing. Allison, who writes and performs all of the album's songs, pours her heart out throughout its 14 tracks. The album is loosely structured around the color theory concept, with each color representing a different emotion or stage of healing. This unique approach adds an extra layer of intrigue to the album, making for a rich and engaging listen.

Instrumentation and Sound

One of the standout features of "Color Theory" is its instrumentation. Allison is joined by a full band on this record, and the result is a sound that is both bigger and more polished than her previous lo-fi releases. The album is filled with lush soundscapes, crushingly loud guitars, and subtle synths that give it a dreamy, atmospheric quality.

Allison's guitar work is a highlight throughout the album. From the delicate finger-picking on "Boy, I Want to Be a Girl" to the distorted power chords on "Circle the Drain," her playing is always front and center, driving the songs forward and anchoring the arrangements.

Production and Mixing

"Color Theory" is one of the most well-produced records of Soccer Mommy's career. The album's rich, immersive sound was crafted in collaboration with producer Danolat Floyd, who helped to refine Allison's lo-fi aesthetic into a sleek, polished production. Every instrument is clear and concise in the mix, allowing each element to shine without geting lost in the clutter.

The record also features some innovative mixing techniques, such as the use of reverse echoes and phased effects that create a sense of space and depth. These production touches help to elevate the album's sound, making it feel both timeless and fresh.

Lyrics and Themes

As with previous Soccer Mommy releases, the lyrics on "Color Theory" are raw, honest, and introspective. Allison's writing is vivid and evocative, painting pictures with words that are both universal and deeply personal. She sings about breakups ("Circle the Drain," "Bloodstream"), mental health ("Yellow Is the Color of Our Skin"), and the complexities of relationships ("Nervous Jericho").

Despite its heavy themes, "Color Theory" is not without its moments of levity and joy. " Turks into Chucks" is an ode to Allison's love of shoes, while "Circle the Drain" features a Surprisingly catchy chorus that is equal parts thrashy punk and sugary pop.

Standout Tracks

"Color Theory" is filled with standout tracks, but a few deserve special mention. The opening trio of "Circle the Drain," "Bloodstream," and "Yellow Is the Color of Our Skin" is one of the strongest opening sequences of any album in recent memory. These songs set the stage for the rest of the record, showcasing Allison's emotional openness and musical versatility.

Later in the album, "Nervous Jericho" and "Broom" stand out as highlights. The former is a pulsating, atmospheric track that features one of Allison's most compelling vocals performances. The latter is a stripped-down, acoustic guitar-driven ballad that showcases her ability to write a heart-wrenching melody.

"Color Theory" is a powerful testament to Soccer Mommy's growth as an artist and a modal force. With this album, Allison has firmly established herself as one of the most exciting and promising voices in modern indie rock. If you haven't already, do yourself a favor and dive into the rich, emotive world of "Color Theory." You won't be disappointed.