Naims – Paces (Album Review)

Naims brings classic rock and modern alternative rock together on the brilliantly unique record Paces.

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TOP 5

5. Play This, Say That

“Play This, Say That” is cool and funky with some really interesting production. The bassline recalls disco, Queen, Talking Heads, and The Beatles. The Beatles influence is omnipresent on this record in the best possible way, but Naims has a unique sound and musical perspective. “Play This, Say That” is probably the funkiest track on the record, but it fits in seamlessly with the rest. The lyrics are about conformity, with the chorus being “Play this, say that / You’re doing it wrong / Play this, say that / Even if it’s your song.”

I love it when a song strips the production down during the chorus rather than amping it up, and “Play This, Say That” does this. The panning of the vocals was also interesting to listen to. The whole mix was.

4. All the Little Things

“All the Little Things” is the opening track of Paces, and I knew from the start that this would be a great listen because of it. I heard the Beatles influence immediately. I also picked up on a little bit of country, but it was definitely a rock song. The harmonies that Ian Stewart (the only member of Naims) does with himself, and the unique vocal line in general, are fascinbating to listen to. The melody didn’t go where I expected it to, and I loved that. This was a great way to introduce the listener to the sound of Paces, and Naims as a whole for first-time listeners like me. I couldn’t help but smile.

3. Stay Out All Day

“Stay Out All Day” is very summery. I wish I had known this song when Paces was released in July, because it’s a perfect beachy song. I love the percussion. The beat is strong, and I think I hear maracas by the end. The vocals are also arranged in a really interesting, layered way that gets more complex as the song goes on. It’s generally a delight to listen to. What starts out in a more simplistic (but still interesting) place moves into a layered, dynamic, and complexly produced track that gets better and better every listen.

2. Paces

I can’t wait to listen to “Paces” while driving. I know for a fact that it will be a great driving song. It has a really interesting melody in the chorus, an awesome guitar part, and a dynamic bassline that has made me bounce while listening every time so far. The subject matter is less cheerful: “One step at a time / Life’s putting me through the paces,” but it’s still a fun listen. It definitely reminds me of The Beatles in that respect. The other respect I hear them in is definitely the harmonies, which are so Lennon–McCartney to me. It’s undeniably unique and recognizable as a Naims track, but it scratches the Beatles itch in my brain.

1. Why Would I?

Paces both starts and ends on a high note, because the album’s closer, “Why Would I?,” is undeniably the best track. The rock instrumentation from the rest of the album is there, but there are prominent synth sounds as well. They’re just drone notes rather than melodies that add an atmospheric element to the track. The lyrics are very sad, expressing loneliness and a lack of desire to put others through what he’s going through. It ends with a gorgeous, emotional instrumental punctuated by beautifully layered “oohs.” It was a glorious way to end Paces. The final moments were stunningly melancholy.

SONG BY SONG RATING

All the Little Things (4.5/5)

The Things She Said (4/5)

One Leg at a Time (4/5)

Uphill (4.5/5)

Play This, Say That (4.5/5)

Blink of an Eye (4/5)

Being Home (4/5)

Doin’ Nothin’ Together (4.5/5)

Stay Out All Day (5/5)

What’s Gotten Into You? (4.5/5)

A Girl I Like (4.5/5)

Paces (5/5)

Why Would I? (5/5)

RGM RATING

Paces is a fantastic record. Naims balances nostalgic, familiar influences from bands like The Beatles, Talking Heads, and Queen with a unique musical perspective. You can tell that Ian Stewart knows about music theory and history, and he can play lots of instruments very well. It’s a very impressive project. There isn’t anyone I wouldn’t recommend this to.

I love finding small artists to listen to and supporting them as they grow. I can say for certain that Naims is one of my new favorite indie acts, and I’d be in the front row if there’s ever a Naims tour. I’m a huge fan. I’ll be listening to their music on repeat.