One Track Mind: “Car Crash,” Telekinesis

After a first listen, “Car Crash” seems like a major contradiction: the song’s airy, unmistakably happy hook draws us in while the morose opening lyrics question this upbeat nature. Buoyant riffs and ironic life questions may not seem like a recipe for success, but Telekinesis — a relatively new group out of Seattle — has managed to craft an irresistible hit in spite of it. Their sound is unabashed power pop; from the song’s opening hook to the powerful, rolling guitar melodies in the middle, you have little choice but to bob your head and tap your feet along with the infectious sound. What makes “Car Crash” slightly different is the whimsical vocal chants that accompany the chorus, as well as the dreamy atmospheric sounds that persist throughout. This can be attributed to the production: Chris Walla, guitarist/producer for fellow Seattleites Death Cab For Cutie, brings his deftness for production and some decidedly indie sensibilities to the table. With all of these influences, “Car Crash”— at a brisk two minutes and 40 seconds — makes for a delightfully creative, dangerously catchy track that’s tough not to love.