After Nashville alt-pop band, COIN, released their self-titled debut in 2015, they hit the road for a few months – including an opening spot with Neon Trees – then pretty much went into hiding to record the masterpiece we are fortunate enough to be graced with today. How Will You Know If You Never Try is the sophomore effort of our dreams and will most definitely be at the top of our summer album picks.
Opening with “Don’t Cry, 2020,” it’s that classic COIN feel mixed with that lingering existential crisis we’ve all been dwelling in since we turned 25. I’m not sure what the future holds but if this album is in our possession, we’ll be alright. “Boyfriend” takes modern dating to a higher level with the sweetest, upbeat indie-pop you’ll hear all year while lead single, “Talk Too Much,” dives into how we, as humans, tend to fear dead silence as we try to fill the air with unnecessary small talk.
Once “I Don’t Wanna Dance” was released this past February, excitement for HWYKIYNT was palpable! It’s hard to deny the Foster The People vibes in this one as wallflowers across the globe raise their fists in unison for a new much-needed anthem. Things get heavier once “Hannah” comes barreling in and the more I listen to it, the more I’m reminded of the character of Hannah Baker from 13 Reasons Why. Could it possibly be inspired by the hit novel & Netflix series?
The band gloriously expanded upon their already massive sound with this release and tracks like the dreamy “Heart Eyes,” “Miranda Beach” and “Are We Alone?” verifies that notion while “Feeling” arouses a sense of nostalgia for their 2015 debut with a taste of Neon Trees and Fits & The Tantrums.
I honestly was not ready for the glory that is “Lately II.” The 80’s pop vibes on this one are as vibrant as ever and just might be the album highlight, especially once things start to pick up towards the end of the track!
Closing out our journey is the ballad, “Malibu 1992,” making it pretty clear that these guys are here to stay and that this is only the beginning. While it may feel like their first album didn’t get the credit it deserves, album number two should do the trick, especially after the whirlwind summer these guys are about to have. After all, how will you know if you never try?
How Will You Know If You Never Try is available now here.
