The New Division

I have a confession to make. I have very little knowledge about The New Division as they have always fallen between genres for me. Too organic to appeal to my electronic taste and too unfocused to make a lasting impression. To be fair, though, I have yet to give them a real chance. “Hidden Memories” is where I stop and listen. Carefully.

As can be heard clearly even by the casual listener, this American pop project can create moods and fluffy soundscapes. Often structured in electronics, but backed by walls of organic sounds and John Kunkel’s relaxed vocals The New Division could appeal to vast audience. Soulful slow pieces like “Modus” and more dance friendly songs like “The Line” walk side by side on “Hidden Memories” and it’s a well working balance.

After numerous listens my initial opinion about The New Division lingers. I listen, but hear very little. It is probably going to work wonders for the initiated, but for me the album kind of recedes into the background. I realize this is quality pop music. It’s just not for me.

This Swedish expanded edition of the album contains six bonus tracks and truly gives fans their money’s worth.