EP Review: Cinema Sounds // Blueprint Tokyo

With their music described as “intense, tender and driving with notes of 80s inspired indie rock dreaminess”, US-based duo Blueprint Tokyo brings a nostalgic flair to modern-day rock. Following the unforeseen health challenges facing their vocalist and guitarist Kevin Dawson, Blueprint Tokyo is influenced by life in its entirety – the good and the bad. Catchy hooks meld with hopeful lyrics creating a soothing but profound new sound. The latest addition to their discography is the EP Cinema Sounds.

Following their well-received single ‘Say Anything’ (a song included on Cinema Sounds), Kevin Dawson and Andy Hale (guitar, synth, drums) elegantly capture life in sound on this new EP. Kevin explains that “life has its ups and downs, and we look at those sometimes tongue in cheek but always trying to be real with the stories we create…” – an almost complete description of Cinema Sounds. Creating music that is honest, raw, real and relatable is what Blueprint Tokyo is all about.

Opening with the track ‘Say Anything’, Blueprint Tokyo begin its delicate exposition of life from childhood to adulthood. The first of three tracks, ‘Say Anything’ is a nostalgic look at childhood and the experiences we face growing up. Quickly followed by ‘LaRusso’, the lads touch on love, first love and the first breakup many people face. The final song on Cinema Sounds is ‘Sailor Girl’ – a track depicting life as they know it, as an adult in our society and their social experiences. It explores parties in the wood, hanging out with friends, and the toll these events can take on a person.

So, now you have an idea of the lyrical depth of Blueprint Tokyo, what does Cinema Sounds actually sound like? Imagine The Cure’s post-punk haziness fused with The Police’s obscurity, and you have an idea of Cinema Sounds. A true blast from the past, ‘Say Anything’ captures the nostalgia of the 80s. Interestingly enough, ‘LaRusso’ and ‘Sailor Girl’ retain the slight 80s flair; however, a strong leaning toward indie rock can be heard, particularly in ‘Sailor Girl’ with the bold guitar riffs and jazzy saxophone. It is as if Blueprint Tokyo’s music grows up with them from yesteryear to modern-day sounds.

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