The evolution of music over time has culminated in some fantastic creations, like Baydream’s latest record, ‘Punk House.’ Don’t dive in expecting heavy, distorted guitars; instead, expand the corners of your mind to see what punk can become with a bit of ingenuity. There is a subgenre called “soul punk,” and whatever Baydream has created is the next natural evolution of this phenomenon. Their groovy, soulful ideologies blend in perfectly with a funky bass line or gothy vocal lead. Several pieces that you wouldn’t assume fit together are missing puzzle pieces, working in tandem to curate a soundscape unlike anything else. Remove any pretenses before you pick up ‘Punk House’ because going in with an open mind will grant you access to colorful visions of pure whimsy.

The introductory track “Forever” was aptly named; the song carries an essence of longing, yearning for forever—perhaps with somebody, or more accurately, within the self. Everything in ‘Punk House’ should be considered a cohesive body, including the tie-ins with the album artwork and introductory number. The painting of a peach (or nectarine…?) represents duality, as does this first song. Synth leads move in and out of each headphone like waves, sparkling with possibility as the narrative unfolds. These songs are meant to be rather interpretive, like the dance style, so it’s crucial to approach the record as though you’re exploring an art gallery.

“Blockbuster” is a bit more mainstream in its composition. A catchy chorus overtakes the mix, utilizing new-wave vocal stylings to convey meaning. The funky guitar riffs don’t get lost in the mix, adding quite a bit of texture to the song. Percussive elements have a similar effect, like a tambourine about midway through that evens out a rather loud crash cymbal that persists throughout. This is among the strongest tracks of the record.

“Seasons | Powers” returns to the themes above of duality, where the narrator introspectively explores more significant concepts within his lyrics. Low and slow, “Seasons | Powers” takes on a strong melodic format that works exceptionally well for its messaging. This record would do well on productivity playlists next to the lo-fi beats girl. This song is a fantastic stylistic indicator for Baydream, though. They have invented their genre, defying expectations by passionately pouring into their creative outlet.

Though “Blockbuster” dipped its toes into mainstream composition territory, “Drug” dives in, mirroring early work by Tyler, The Creator, and Chance The Rapper. There was an aura about music in 2016 that felt very sunflowery that has since been neglected. However, “Drug” revisits these ideologies, emitting a contagiously optimistic energy throughout the track. It is so catchy despite being softer; contradictory, as the softness counters the idea of the high of a drug. This chorus alone made “Drug” my favorite on the record.

“Baseline” is a great transitional moment, with one of the longest run times in the album. It signifies the beginning of the end; simplistic in its production, “Baseline” guides listeners to the b-side of the record. This beat is among my favorites in the LP, as it refrains from using distracting percussion elements to tell its story. It’s also very twinkly-sounding how Midwest emo tends to be, further solidifying Baydream’s creative prowess.

As the record slows, “Heart Bleach” helps finalize any remaining themes or storylines. This short transitional piece does a lot of heavy lifting. Its poetic lyricism flows incredibly well, restating ideas from songs like “Blockbuster” without being too repetitive. Instead, these restatements solidify the narrator’s concepts.

“End Time, End War” gives way to the “punk” factor in ‘Punk House.’ Lest we forget, punk is an inherently political genre and movement. You don’t necessarily need a roaring distorted guitar to qualify as a “true” punk. Instead, the theme and ideology are where it’s at. Anti-war statements are crucial for punk culture, so I believe Baydream fits in with their synthy electronic drums. This catchy track will be stuck in my head for the rest of the evening!

Finally, “Water Find Fire” takes us back to the overarching theme of duality without overdoing it. Instead, the record continuously finds exciting ways to divulge into complex, existential topics, with gorgeous composition guiding the way. Baydream has done a clever job of getting their point across in the most authentic artistic way in the book; they show us rather than tell us. This is an awe-inspiring feat for a sonic-based medium like music.

‘Punk House’ sounds a lot like a painting for the ears, which makes its artwork all the more fitting. Baydream has curated an awe-inspiring world for their music to live in, giving audiences little easter eggs and nuggets to explore in each track. From start to finish, ‘Punk House’ invigorates the senses, inviting you along a complex sonic journey that will, hopefully, expand the mind.