Chicano Batman – Invisible People / ATO
Reviewed By: Genevieve Kyle
LA’s favorite tropic-psych band, Chicano Batman, released their new album, Invisible People on May 1st. To me, this album is something that is not to be passed up and is a must for your summer playlists.
Invisible People is a record that gives the listener a feeling of sonic euphoria and clarity, aided by the records smooth synths and continuous talks of peace and equality. From front to back, Invisible People will not only have you floating through a pool of enchanting sounds, but will have you asking the question– how can I be the best version of myself?
Invisible People builds off of what Chicano Batman created in their 2017 album, Freedom is Free. Although Freedom is Free has more of a 70s summertime chill sound, Invisible People has managed to intertwine the same smooth melodies and big, sweeping hooks. However, their 2020 record can be looked at as the band’s final message that was unable to become articulated in 2017. Through the increase of psychedelic and tropicalia sounds, larger hooks, and definitive statements, that are all tied together through cleaner production supported by famed mixing artists Sharon Jones, Leon Michels, and Shawn Everett. Invisible People can be seen as Chicano Batman’s ultimate creation, giving pff an ultimate vibe.
The album’s opener, “Color My life”, is a prime example of the group’s journey. Giving off a carefree attitude, brought by its upbeat piano and synth, and low bass, this song prepares the listener for the new sounds that are going to be created throughout the rest of the album, while standing in a league of its own.
The music video for “Color My Life” features the four-piece band in their newly remodeled style, they’ve ditched their normal look of matching ruffled suits, and have gone into an everyday street style.
And building off of the cool hypnotic tones is “Manuel’s People,” a track with a quicker pace that can be seen as drawing a slight similarity to the sounds of Tame Impala. “Manuel’s People” greatly speaks to the band’s message of what it means for us all to be human, by telling the story of a man who had to leave his home due to crime and the actions that revolve around it. The song’s dance-club feel, intertwined with their strong storyline, further pushes the overall meaning of the album.
As staples of the growing indie-Latin scene in Los Angeles, it would be a shame not to check out Chicano Batman’s Invisible People.
Recommended tracks: 1, 3, 5, 11