Throughout my years in college, I’ve followed a certain sound in modern music. I often find myself listening to bands whose music reflects themes I can relate to–or aspire to relate to–often revolving around questioning the purpose and relationships in my life. It almost becomes a way for me to try to make sense of a constantly shifting and fast-paced world around me, where it often feels as if I’m always doing something wrong or could always be doing more. It’s all a result of the heavy expectations we put on ourselves and others, whether we want to or not. It’s an endless cycle of striving to gain control over our path and trying to keep up with our desires, and it’s exhausting. Somehow, this endless chaos of reality led me to discover what I believe perfectly encapsulates this idea: Flipturn’s sophomore LP, Burnout Days.
Given the band’s entire concept, you might find it easy to initially place Flipturn within the sound that often defines the college years of a moody adolescence. You know, that generic “do-it-yourself” indie rock style that you’d expect to be a part of your Indie Mix playlist on Spotify. But, that is not what we are talking about here-–Flipturn has completely broken away from that label and evolved into something far more captivating. My first exposure to the band came through their track ‘Sad Disco’ from their debut album Shadowglow. Although I’d never heard of the band, something about the head-nodding rhythm of the lead guitar and the unmistakable uniqueness of Dylan Basse’s voice made me stop and think, ‘Oh my god. Who are these guys?’
The band was founded by Madeline Jarmin (bass), Tristan Duncan (guitar), and Dylan Basse (lead vocals) when they were just high school seniors. Over time, they slowly but surely gained traction throughout their years at the University of Florida, where they would add band members Mitch Fountain (synth and guitar) and Devon VonBalson (drums). During their time at University, they played numerous house shows, performing for crowds in hopes of building momentum. This eventually led to a life that can only be described as overwhelming and fast-paced, which would all be reflected in the new album.
Burnout Days effectively conveys the themes of mental exhaustion by embracing the sounds and pace that come with it, without glorifying the concept. Kicking off with the first track, “Juno”, the LP doesn’t even try to ease us in with a build-up. Instead, we are thrown right into the turbulence. The heavy synth is sure to jolt you awake, making you feel as if you’re caught in a series of quick-time events. The symbolism is clear and impossible to miss, especially with the line, “Yeah, you say you’re doing just fine enjoying the joyride.” The next track, “Rodeo Clown”, was the first of the album to be released as a single, and it was met with widespread praise from fans on social media. Dylan touches on themes of self-reflection, exploring his role among the crowd and seeing himself as a rodeo clown, as the title suggests.
“Sunlight” highlights that this album focuses more on the concept of burnout versus the romanticized ideal of a successful musician. In this track, Dylan opens up about his relationships, reflecting on the burden his family also has to carry. Because of this, “Sunlight” stands out as being the most important on the album, as it can deeply resonate with the emotions of the listener. This is not just another life of a musician. This is raw human nature. Expanding on this, the track, “Right?”, delves heavily into how this mindset can not only affect us, but the people we care about. I can imagine someone, most likely a loved one, expressing concerns to Dylan about his goals and mindset. This tension is intensified by the buildup of electric guitar, almost simulating an intense argument between the two.
And all you’re asking for is just a little more time
To prove some existence
In some existential war,
Through all the blood and gore
‘Cause people admire persistence.
Right? Right? Right?
The following tracks continue to touch on themes of relationship during these chaoticeras of life. “Window” takes a step back with a fingerpicking style and reflects on the emptiness that comes with being so prideful of one’s accomplishments, to the point where others begin to see you for who you truly are. “Swimming Between Trees” continues this theme with another fast-paced approach, capturing the ups and downs that come with a relationship.
Despite all of this, there are still quiet moments—times when we pause and remind ourselves that everything is going to be okay. This is how we manage to keep our feet on the ground, a theme conveyed in the track “Tides”. This kicks off the final stretch of the LP, where we are eventually brought to the title track of the album, “Burnout Days”. This is the ultimate love song of the album, reflecting on all the chaos that has unfolded, yet still being to find that one love. Despite everything they’ve been through, they vow to continue to love eachother for the rest of their burnout days. Burnout Days embodies the concept of “dancing through the pain”, blending exhilarating Vampire Weekend-style guitar riffs with The Cure-style synths. For those in their early-adult years, this album is likely to resonate with you in some ways. During these years, we constantly feel the need to prove ourselves, pushing ourselves to reach that goal. But the cycle never stops—it’s grueling, yet we keep pushing forward. Although everyone has their own story and struggles, I feel Flipturn speaks for a generation. I highly recommend giving this album a listen.
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