Isaac Dunbar's 'Beep Beep Repeat' Is a Dazzlingly Indulgent Pop Journey
Photo: Thom Kerr
Rising pop icon Isaac Dunbar is maximizing his instinctual star power with his first project in two years, Beep Beep Repeat. With a slew of singles that set expectations extremely high, this young visionary knows exactly how to make a sonic splash in this dazzling six-song EP. In the striking cover art, Dunbar is joined by RuPaul’s Drag Race album Kerri Colby and celebrity hairstylist Iggy Rosales as they serve absolute face posed by a signature yellow taxi. Inspired by the wild nights of buzzing New York, each track explores the pop savant's experience of self-discovery through the city, its parties, and its art, which blend together in this exploration of indulgent pop expression.
Drawing inspiration from past decades is not new for Dunbar, but his ability to channel the greats reaches new heights in Beep Beep Repeat. Hints of '70s disco flair, '80s pop rock, and even a bit of '90s grunge intertwine to create a decadent sonic feast. From anthemic party starter “Apartment A” to the glam rock piano ballad “American High,” there’s something for everyone in this charismatic work of art. The last previously released track, “Backseat Girl,” stays a standout moment with its glorious yearning conveyed through Dunbar’s gorgeous vocal performance and dramatic instrumentation.
The first new track on the project is the addictive “I Love To Dance.” Co-written with experimental digital icon Uffie, the track pushes the boundaries of what's expected from a pop song. Dunbar’s delivery is a stream of consciousness with an air of confidence, expressed over an eerie dissonant piano beat. With its visceral songwriting and funky production, it’s impossible not to be intrigued. A complimentary companion, “Photoshoot Tonight” toys with industrial runway beats while Dunbar muses about the healing powers of getting all dolled up to better your mood.
Beep Beep Repeat ends with the explosion that is “C.R.A.Z.Y,” an unconventional love song where Isaac declares, “I know that it’s crazy and it’s stupid but I kinda really like it.” This upbeat banger is brimming with sharp songwriting and attention-capturing power dynamic production. The track is animated, nostalgic, and will definitely go off in a live performance setting.
Dunbar possesses the components of a timeless vintage star with a deep appreciation for the modern world and in Beep Beep Repeat, the accumulation of every side of this artistry produces a glorious result. With an appreciation for the maximalism of pop he grew up on and a natural theatricality that oozes through every lyric, Dunbar puts an exceptional foot forward with one of his most striking projects to date.
Listen to Beep Beep Repeat
