Starting off this set of songs is arguably Beach House’s best example of their songwriting expertise. What puts their sixth studio album on top is its use of floaty instrumentals and hard-hitting lyrics that inspire visuals of sailing among stars and planets on a peaceful journey. Alongside Teen Dream and Bloom, Beach House put out album after album in the 2010s that touched the hearts of Dreampop fans and brought a signature 90s sound into mainstream pop once again, inspiring a comeback in the genre.
Often listed as one of Beach House’s biggest inspirations, Cocteau Twins are an essential listen when it comes to Dreampop of the 90s underground scene. Although their unintelligable lyrics might put off some listeners, it adds to the other worldly feel that this duo perfected. Wailing guitars and precise percussion add another dimensional layer to their sound. While keeping the same peaceful energy of Space Song, Cocteau Twins know exactly how to craft a flowery instrumental
blend that stands out.
Building on the buzzy theme of “Heaven or Las Vegas,” “Just Like Honey” was also an important landmark in the development of alternative rock genre offshoots such as noisepop. Using distant drums and distorted vocals, The Jesus and Mary Chain create a liminal sound in this breakthrough track. Their distorted angsty sound flows through suggestive lyrics and pulls the listener into a bittersweet journey. When paired alongside “Space Song,” these tracks build a beautiful, trance-like listening experience.
Broadcast calls back to 1960s psychedelica, pulling from a broad library of musical references. They often used samples from early electronic groups that pioneered an experimental new sound. This track in particular uses a similar melancholic tone to “Just Like Honey,” both of which being landmark tracks for alternative music fans. Paired with punchy bass and optimistic twinkly keyboard, “Come On Let’s Go” earns it’s place among other icons of the 90s independant scene with a familiar cult fan base.
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