Neon Heights (LP) - The Screaming Pope (Chillwave) Lush and brooding landscapes are painted with the latest release from The Screaming Pope, the broody and relaxing “Neon Heights” LP. Described by the artist as “a challenging but rewarding listen,” we can only agree with the second part, as this collection of sonic appetizers is as easy to slip into as a warm bath. We dig into the production and vibes below, with emphasis on some of our favorite tracks on the album.

But first, a little about the artist. The Screaming Pope is fronted by George Bolton, a former music video assistant and veteran of the Rhode Island, Chicago, Boston and New York music scenes since the early 80s. George began crafting his latest release in 2020, which has garnered some South American and European airplay. Recorded in his home studio in Boston, the project is that of one man band—production, engineering and even cover art are all generated by George.

Boasting a healthy 14 tracks, “Neon Heights” clocks in at the 30 minute mark, with most tracks lasting no more than 1-2 minutes in length. That’s because very few of the numbers follow the classic song structure. In fact, we’d say only “Movie Star”, “When The Beat Drops”, “Me Gusta” and “I Want You” fall into the standard verse, chorus, bridge template. And that’s because, above all, “Neon Heights” is an album about atmospherics. It’s a vibe first album, with the use of vocals often being that of additional instruments in a carefully constructed soundscape.

That sound, with a few departures, mostly sits in a chillwave, down- and mid-tempo brooding R&B genre, broken up with the occasional house/dance record and latin infused “Me Gusta.” The vibe that “Neon Heights” generates is that of a rainy day coffee shop, which means that so much of the gold on this record is primed for chillwave playlists.

The production throughout is flawless. Instrument separation, depth and movement abound throughout each of the numbers, resulting in delectable morsels of moods. It’s a straight through listen, assisted by a well thought out sequencing that has the tracks easily handing off the baton from one to the next. There’s a variety of vocal features throughout, male and female, including some hiphop/rap verses. “Neon Heights” is consistent, yet eclectic, highlighting a myriad of musical influences.

Our favorite track is the album opener “Movie Star”—a broody track about yearning for the affection of someone The Screaming Pope deems superior to all. With a foreboding bass and atmospheric keys, the track reminds us a lot of Kiiara’s “Gold” in its overall vibe. The vocals shine throughout, conveying the pleading nature of the track, delivering some beautifully crafted and memorable lyrics.

“When The Beat Drops”, which along with “I Won’t” bring a 90s house/dance vibe to the album, feels very Robyn, specifically her “We Dance To The Beat” from the acclaimed 3 part “Body Talk” project. We also have a soft spot for album closer “The Battle”, featuring a female vocalist addressing and adversarial relationship that only lead to her growth and success. Some excellent lyrics here as well, and we almost wish this one extended into a longer track.