While I’m still amazed by the possibilities of music AI (such as udio, Suno, Riffusion, etc.) these days, the new album by The Lemon Twigs is out, and I’ve never heard of them before.

The 12-track release envelops me in a strange plaid of melancholy, leaving me torn. On one hand, I’ve always loved it when old music influences young or new artists to create something both innovative and familiar (Adam Green, The Black Keys, The Checks, The Heavy, The Kills, etc.). On the other hand, AI is poised to soon take over, potentially creating music in similar veins, alongside the obvious genres like lo-fi and melodic techno house. This is why I feel doubly melancholic—the music itself and the uncertain times when an AI could produce an album like this.

This melancholy also encapsulates the feeling I had while listening to the album: I enjoyed the sound from the moment I pressed play until the last song, but none of the tracks stuck with me. The album notably lacks a standout hit. I believe the album could grow on me after a few more listens, but there isn’t one track that immediately stands out.

Nevertheless, it’s enjoyable to hear some retro sounds, and perhaps my opinion will change with time. However, after the initial listen, I would rate it a 3.5 out of 5.