After the success of their first album, “Nothing Happens,” Los Angeles-based band Wallows released their second studio album, “Tell Me That It’s Over” on March 25. The alternative-indie band dives deep into the emotions revolving around a variety of topics common to the indie genre: love, life and relationships. With the influences of pop, punk and dream-pop within these 10 songs, they once again establish themselves as a classic band within the rise of the indie genre. 

Opening with a mellow and steady track titled “Hard to Believe,” the band gracefully introduces listeners to a new era of Wallows. The song builds up to lead listeners to the bridge with the help of drums, guitars and other instruments to add energy to the song. Band member Dylan Minette leads the vocals for this song, which are easy to follow and strong while the instrumentals aid them to build just the beginning of an impressive album, accomplishing everything that an introduction track should do.

Adding playful energy to the album, Wallows provides a strong pop-influenced song titled “I Don’t Want to Talk.” First introduced to fans as an unreleased song during the tour, the band teased this song and the second album before any mention of a sophomore album. The song itself is reminiscent of youthfulness and the content of the lyrics sung by Dylan Minette and Braeden Preston juxtaposes the playful sound. “I Don’t Want to Talk” can be whatever the listener wants it to be: a playful summer song or an angsty teen song about facing the end of a relationship. Through this single and track, the band demonstrates their intentional lyric writing and song production. While I can appreciate the artistry behind the song, after a couple of listens it lost its magic. 

Continuing the upbeat and playful trend of songs, “Especially you” is the third track. With it being the second single, it displays a more experimental approach to song-making. The vocals could be described as somewhat of a chant, in a lively and energetic way. Though it isn’t a complex song, it is enjoyable to listen to.

“At the End of the Day,” the band introduces a synthesizer and vocals from Braeden Lemasters, who has a more mellow voice compared to Dylan Minette. This breaks the chain of upbeat songs and dips more into the more contemplative and somewhat sadder side of Wallows, while still keeping the energy. 

“Marvelous” and “Hurts Me” continue some of the trends established in “Especially you.” Both of these tracks provide a lively insight into relationships and the pain caused by relationships in the guise of a pop-like song. These are strong songs on their own, but sometimes they blend into the rest of the album, taking away from the strength of both tracks individually. 

Next is “Permanent Price.” From my first listen, I knew that this track would stick with me. It lacks the dance-pop influences it is surrounded by and adapts to a more mellow pop indie vibe. It is an enjoyable track and will be added to my playlist.

“Missing out” starts off mellow, which was a nice break from the pop influences. The song built up in a satisfying way into the chorus. It is somewhat repetitive, but it is easy to listen to, and the development and deconstruction of energy throughout the song are quite beautiful. 

The second to last song “That’s What I Get” also takes a turn to break down and define their definition of a mellow track once again. The pause in energy is appreciated as it gives the album versatility and the opportunity to be enjoyed in more than upbeat settings. The track is reminiscent of more of a dream-pop genre and Wallows fits the subgenre well. 

Serving as the ballad of the album, Wallows takes an acoustic approach to the final song. It contrasts the beginning songs and wraps up the ideas nicely with a cozy instrumental. “Guitar Romantic Search Adventure” feels almost nostalgic and the bridge is stunning. They definitely saved the best for last with “Tell Me That It’s Over,” as it is one of the most memorable tracks on the album.

“Tell Me That It’s Over” is overall a strong album. Wallows do an impeccable job at exploring different genres. While they do have really strong pop influences, the addition of other sub-genres is like a breath of fresh air, especially the acoustic and dreamier influences. Though pop usually doesn’t find its way into my playlists, I can appreciate the artistry behind the more high-energy songs. Although I don’t think I’ll find myself specifically seeking the pop-influenced songs, this album has found its way into my Spotify album rotation. Cohesively it works well, but some of the songs aren’t strong enough to stand on their own. I think this album is a great representation of the emotions surrounding youth and navigating relationships, and their younger audience finds solace in this.

⅗ stars