Battleme, Habitual Love Songs (El Camino)

Sometimes, being in your comfort zone isn't an entirely good thing.

By Mark Stock

[FUZZY FOLK] It seems a little premature for Battleme to release a record such as Habitual Love Songs, so soaked in nonchalance and self-appreciation. Singer-songwriter Matt Drenik might get away with this a few records from now, but at the moment, it'd be better for him to focus on solidifying his burgeoning career in bouncy folk rock. Instead, Battleme's third full-length dwells on blown-out vocals, monotonous guitar lines and not much more. There are bright spots, sure, the best of which mimic Phosphorescent and Monster-era R.E.M. Songs like "Shake Shake" demonstrate an intoxicatingly linear quality, riding an endless bassline into the sunset, while "Head Up" displays a timeless and emotive Lennon-meets-Oasis quality. Overall, the record comes off as the carefree work of a band in its ultimate comfort zone, that can afford joyous meandering, as in the Dandy Warhols-inspired "Go." But it can also lead to the tired piano and worn-out lines of "Green Trees." While the second half of Habitual Love Songs dabbles in bigger, more experimental territory, it doesn't quite save the album from slipping into background-music territory. MARK STOCK.

SEE IT: Battleme plays Bunk Bar, 1028 SE Water Ave., with Criminal Guitars and Hollers, on Thursday, Feb. 11. 9:30 pm. $8. 21+.

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