By Monica Pizzo

COIN, a poppy band from Nashville, released their second album on Friday called How Will You Never Know If You Never Try. The album itself is sweet and energetic and reminiscent of their classic style: pumped up summer-time synth.

The album kicks off with a track called “Don’t Cry, 2020,” its lyrics telling the listener in a boppy tone not to worry about the future. Their style of carefree pop saturates this song, starting the album with an energetic tone.

The next few songs include “Boyfriend,” “I Don’t Wanna Dance,” and by far their most known song, “Talk Too Much,”  These songs are still energetic and quite similar to the tone set by the first song, each with variations of their own. The lyrics of the songs don’t tell any particular story in regards to a common theme, but all have a sound and general likeliness to love songs.

The following four songs are slower, bringing the vibe of the album down a bit. It picks back up again with “Feeling,” a lively song following the same tone they generally use, but lacks chord variation and distinction from their other tracks.

The album ends with the song “Malibu 1992,” a summary, lighter track that acts as the perfect closer. The synth aspect of the song reminds you of stars and ripples in water, with Chase Lawrence’s voice taking you on a summer-time journey.

The album itself is nice and energetic, but it lacks variety from other tracks they have released. Although a band should have consistency, repetition should be avoided as fans look for new songs and vibes to relate to. Their songs, when performed live, often have a uniqueness to them, lended by the band’s energy and incredible stage performance. But without this, the songs become a little lack-luster and blend into each other — not on purpose but because of their similarity.

How Will You Know If You Never Try is an album worth listening to, nonetheless. Their pop-synth tracks make a good soundtrack to hazy summer nights. Just know that their new songs can blend into each other and become background noise on your summertime road trips.

The album is available on Spotify and Apple Music.

Featured Photo Credit: Guitarist and vocalist Joe Memmel (left) and lead singer Chase Lawrence (right) of COIN perform at Terpstock in the Nyumburu Amphitheater. (Cassie Osvatics/Bloc Reporter)

Monica Pizzo is a freshman journalism major and can be reached at mpizzo@terpmail.umd.edu.