On the sophomore album HELIX, Cole Lumpkin delivers a self-produced masterclass in resilience and eclectic charm. Written and performed entirely by Lumpkin, the project navigates the “catalytic” fallout of a major breakup and a deeper journey of self-discovery. From the sun-drenched yearning of “Where I Left Me” to funky, sophisti-pop orchestral flourishes, the album transforms personal struggle into a polished, stylistically versatile success.
A lush, scenic atmosphere sets the album in motion; its title track caresses with a blissful array of bird-chirping and starry-eyed synths. Lush electronics and twinkling keys then expand seamlessly into a punchier charisma as ensuing track “Where I Left Me” kicks into gear. There, the illuminated synth-laden direction continues amidst a head-nodding rhythmic charm. Lyrically, the track captivates with its hazy, sun-drenched portrayal of romantic obsession and the paralyzing inertia of waiting for a love that may never return. “I’m where I left me, waiting for you,” Lumpkin’s vocals stir as heartrending strings emerge, swiftly taken over by arpeggiated synths and then a smattering of guitars, in furthering a dynamic and melodic production. The lyrical yearning and reminiscing pair with a replay-inducing drive to make “Where I Left Me” a particularly resonant success.
The ensuing “90 Degrees” continues the catching songwriting, here succeeding in a different stylistic realm entirely. Shifting to a funkier pop confidence, the track’s bouncy bass line and debonair vocal stride delights in its smitten qualities, singing “everything is so loud, but with you the crowd’s on mute.” Apt referencing to shape-shifting comes as the tonal array shifts to a multi-layered vocal harmoniousness and triumphant key-forward snazziness into the finale. “Bamboozled By Love” remains within that retro-loving mold, as suave guitars and bursts of expressive brass traverse gradually into a bluesy, rollicking rock fervency. The tracks preceding it largely succeed in dreamier soundscapes and funkier inclinations, so with the second half “Bamboozled By Love” it’s also fun to hear the project excel in the no-frills rock vein.
Moving into the album’s second half, “The Crystal Island” asks “where do I go?” with soul-searching intrigue as a hooky clarity unveils. Flashes of strings enamored within “Where I Left Me,” but they shine especially here — its sophisti-pop initial vocal musings growing wonderfully into those orchestral effects and trickling electric guitar passion. Riveting, soaring guitar work dazzles especially in its conclusion. Up next, “Softer” is aptly named with a lounge-friendly, jazzy piano subduedness and “I’ll be there to help you” vocal reassurances; the result is a night-out, hearts-bared success that once again reveals gorgeous string incorporations. Album finale “Elevate” — featuring Zach DeNike — is a fully satiating send-off, its admissions of envy and “running through my head all night” vigor complementing an infectious pop savvy of a production. HELIX is an excellently produced, frequently hooky standout from Cole Lumpkin.
