Album Review: BAIO – 'Dead Hand Control'

BAIO’s third solo album is a deep dive into the confusion and chaos of the world today. Infused with upbeat funk and techno influences, it is an uplifting record, on which the Vampire Weekend bassist flexes his electronic production muscles to impressive effect.

He opens with upbeat acoustic guitar on the title-track, singing, “You can take my life, but you will never take my soul.” Throughout the record, he crefuses to succumb to the darkness, all the while experimenting with newer sounds while staying close to his patented synth-pop style.

The sprawling ‘OMW,’ co-written with Vampire Weekend bandmate Ezra Koenig, is one of the highlights. Across nearly 10 minutes, BAIO sings of finding his way through the world, summing up the record’s central theme. The piano and twinkling synths are reminiscent of the Vamps’s baroque indie vibes, though the electronic sounds give it an extra dimension.

Throughout Dead Hand Control, BAIO focuses on taking back control through love and interpersonal connections. Overall, a highly enjoyable listen, even if the positive vibes are occasionally overdone.

• 7/10, out now.