SINGLE REVIEW: The Purple Helmets - Criminal of Love
‘Criminal of Love’ opens with a lush, ambient introduction that immediately sets an immersive tone. The atmosphere is hazy yet vibrant, steeped in shoegaze tendencies and grounded by a solid indie rock foundation. What makes this track particularly captivating is its striking balance of contrasts—piercing, angular guitar riffs juxtaposed against bright, uptempo jangle. This interplay between sharp edges and shimmering melodies creates a sound that is as distinctive as it is satisfying.
The vocals are a standout feature, delivered with a confident, expressive clarity that cuts through the haze and commands attention. They serve as the perfect counterpoint to the smooth, atmospheric guitars, which swirl and swell with precision and purpose. The drums are clean and deliberate, anchoring the track with an understated but effective pulse that allows the other elements to shine.
Sonically, ‘Criminal of Love’ draws from a deep well of influences, combining the nostalgia of 90s and early 2000s indie rock with the expansive sensibilities of stadium anthems. Despite these familiar touchstones, the band injects a modern flair that makes the track feel fresh and relevant. There’s an authenticity to the production—it’s polished and flawlessly executed without feeling sterile, retaining an organic warmth that invites repeated listens.
With its seamless blend of sharp and melodic elements, ‘Criminal of Love’ capitalises on its poppier sensibilities while maintaining an undeniable edge. It’s a song that feels both sweeping and intimate, a hallmark of The Purple Helmets’ ability to craft music that resonates across genres and eras. Unique yet uncomplicated, this track cements the band’s position as purveyors of timeless indie rock with a modern twist.
