In the vast landscape of indie rock, Blueprint Tokyo emerges from the heartland of Oklahoma City, wielding a sonic palette that seamlessly blends rhythmic post-punk with sophisticated pop. Their latest single, “Take My Breath,” is a testament to their ability to traverse the realms of indie music, offering a track that is both intense and tender, driving yet dreamy.
The duo behind Blueprint Tokyo, Kevin Dawson and Andrew Hale, showcase a remarkable chemistry that transcends the boundaries of conventional indie rock. “Take My Breath” opens with a pulsating energy, driven by a rhythmic post-punk foundation that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. The vocals, simultaneously intense and tender, weave through the musical landscape with a sense of urgency, carrying the weight of the song’s emotional core. Equal parts Bono and Pete Yorn, the singer really delivers, and elevates the track to the next level.
What sets Blueprint Tokyo apart is their commitment to creating an atmospheric experience. As the song progresses, layers of sophisticated pop elements unfold, revealing a melodic synth-pop dimension that adds an ethereal quality to the track. The transitions between the upbeat indie vibes and the more contemplative moments are executed with precision, keeping the listener engaged throughout the journey.
Blueprint Tokyo carefully navigates the fine line between 80’s cheese and genuine appreciation for that specific era of synth-pop. The saxophone is such a tricky instrument to incorporate without overdoing it. Here, it feels right at home, tastefully inserted and adding to the whole of the song. Instead of firmly cementing it to decade like a poorly aged joke, the sax in “Take My Breath” stretches out across time the way Clarence Clemons helped add to Springsteen, never weighing the music down. The track would feel right at home in a film from 1983 or 2023.
The hooks in “Take My Breath” are undeniable, serving as sonic anchors that embed themselves in the listener’s mind. The song’s structure is carefully crafted, allowing each section to build upon the previous one, creating a dynamic and cohesive listening experience. This attention to detail is a testament to Blueprint Tokyo’s dedication to their craft and their ability to create music that resonates on multiple levels.
The intensity and dreaminess that have been ascribed to Blueprint Tokyo’s sound are evident in “Take My Breath.” The song encapsulates the band’s ability to balance the visceral impact of indie rock with the more introspective and atmospheric qualities of dream pop. It’s a sonic journey that invites the listener to lose themselves in the music, feeling the ebb and flow of emotions that Blueprint Tokyo masterfully evokes.
For those unfamiliar with Blueprint Tokyo, “Take My Breath” serves as a compelling introduction to their sonic universe. The duo’s ability to blend genres and create music that is both accessible and artistically rich positions them as a noteworthy presence in the indie rock scene. As the song draws to a close, leaving a lingering sense of catharsis, one can’t help but anticipate what musical landscapes Blueprint Tokyo will explore next.
“Take My Breath” by Blueprint Tokyo is a commendable addition to the band’s repertoire, showcasing their prowess in crafting epic indie rock tunes ready for larger venues. With its infectious hooks, atmospheric layers, and a perfect balance between intensity and dreaminess, the song exemplifies Blueprint Tokyo’s ability to capture the essence of indie rock with a unique and sophisticated flair. Highly recommended.
https://www.blueprinttokyo.com/
