A barefooted Sloan Struble in a retro plaid suit—known as Dayglow in the music world—is on the cover of the artist’s newest album, “Harmony House.” This artistic cover invites listeners into Struble’s latest musical experience with the warm backdrop, miscellaneous props and chords splayed on the ground.
Struble is a 21-year-old Texas native who writes, produces and records all of his own music under the name Dayglow. His 2019 album, “Fuzzybrain,” excited the music community with its dream-like indie-pop sound. Now, two years since the release of his first album, Struble has entered a new phase of his life and his music follows suit.
While still upholding a signature sound, Dayglow delivers a listening experience influenced by musical elements popularized by the music of the 70s and 80s. This results in comforting tunes with a tinge of nostalgia. The album includes songs that are rhythmic and incline listeners to get up and dance alongside slower songs that will remind fans of a lonely prom night in the 80s.
Struble achieves this musical homage to classic-pop by incorporating more synth sounds and instrumentation compared to his first album. Sparkling sounds reminiscent of effects in 80s love songs are generated with a synthesizer as well as laser sound effects that are inspired by popular music of the decade. Saxophone, keyboard and mallet percussion instruments are used, emphasizing the retro overtone of the album and adding to the emotional feelings throughout. The sound that Struble produces on the album is similar to the music of Peter Gabriel, Foreigner, and Whitney Houston.
“Harmony House” displays Struble’s experimentation and growth as an artist, while incorporating certain elements that are integral to his unique style. Similar to the songs on “Fuzzybrain,” Struble includes elements within his vocals and instrumentation that are specific to his style. The vocals contain an echoic sound that is produced through layering and creates a dreamlike feel. It is a central element in his previous releases. There are also similarities in the upbeat guitar riffs and bright drum beats, which together create a catchy rhythm.
The album starts off with a collection of songs that will compel listeners to get up and dance—including the songs “Something,” “Close to You” and “Balcony,”—which have all been released as singles this year. A slight turn is made in the middle with the introduction of a few slower-paced songs like “Woah Man,” which ensures a variety of musical styles.
An uplifting and comforting tone is harnessed in “Harmony House,” but Struble also addresses relatable and emotional topics within his lyricism. Much of the album is focused on the topic of change regarding how it is an inevitable part of life. Struble sings about love, loss and growing up, which audiences from any walk of life can connect to.
Several songs on the album are focused on the theme of love, addressing how it is constantly changing and even fleeting at times. The idea of moving through different phases in life is also a prevalent theme. The album touches on the experiences of watching time pass with each season and accepting the turns that appear in one’s path.
In its entirety, the album is cohesive and simultaneously fascinating, delivering many sounds and subjects in every song. Each one is tethered by elements of melody and tone that remain consistent throughout the album. New elements in instrumentation, structure and rhythm are added to set them apart.
“Harmony House” draws on the best parts of 70s and 80s soft rock and delivers it on an indie music platter. The album is a step in the right direction for Dayglow, delivering new and exciting additions while also staying true to key elements that fans are familiar with. Harmony House is set to be released on May 21. Give it a listen to hear the latest addition to the young artist’s already impressive resume.
