There are some bands that really stick with me upon first listen. This was Passion Pit for me. When I first heard their debut album, Manners, I was hooked because every song on this album immediately lifts my mood. However, the synth-pop and indietronica beats are not the only thing about this album that I enjoy. Michael Angelakos, the man behind Passion Pit, is a creative lyricist, and their songs have depth to them, despite their playful melodies.

Passion Pit released Manners in 2009, and, this spring, they have been touring in celebration of the 10-year anniversary of the release. Some highlights of this album include a cover of “Dreams”, by the Cranberries, as well as “Sleepyhead” which was originally included on the band’s first EP released in 2008. In order to get a full background accompaniment to a few songs on the album, the band enlisted the help of elementary school students with New York’s PS22 Chorus. You can hear their recorded accompaniment on the album’s first single, “The Reeling”.

However, my favorite song on this album is “Moth’s Wings”. Angelakos’ vocals seem to float delicately about, weaving in between a steady beat. They flutter just like moth’s wings as he sings about a person who meets others with confrontation and conflict; however, he is offering refuge:

You’re just like your father
Buried deep under the water
You’re resting on your laurels
And stepping on my toes.
Whose side are you on?
What side is this anyway?
Put down your sword and crown
Come lay with me on the ground.

Passion Pit will be wrapping up their tour celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Manners at The Anthem on May 25th, and we are so excited for this show! So, be sure to pick up your tickets and enjoy a few videos of our favorite songs from the album!