REVIEW: Esso – ‘Just Like In The Movies’

Esso returns with ‘Just Like In The Movies’, their sophomore album that feels like opening the cover of a beloved film score. From the first chord of ‘Break Me’, it’s clear that this is a curated journey through cinematic moods, indie-rock energy, and heartfelt storytelling, blending the personal and the fantastical with effortless charm.

The album thrives on its storytelling. Tracks like ‘Enough’ immediately conjure visual narratives, each lyric and guitar flourish acting as a scene in a larger, unfolding movie. Meanwhile, ‘Kiss of Death’ drips with femme fatale allure, echoing the sleek tension of a classic Bond vignette. And then there’s ‘Get to LA’, which bathes in sun-soaked romanticism, capturing the magnetic pull of Hollywood dreams and the glimmer of possibility in a city that has inspired countless stories.

Amid the cinematic flourishes, Esso never loses sight of the personal. ‘This Is What We Do’ celebrates the duality of pursuing a creative life, while ‘Can’t Believe’ stands out as a tender homage, its sincerity cutting through the energetic rock framework.

Musically, the album is a playground of late-’90s and early-2000s influences. The melodic clarity of Weezer meets the jagged edges of Queens of the Stone Age, while the hook-laden sensibilities of Motion City Soundtrack shine through, anchored by driving rhythms and well-placed guitar riffs. Each track feels meticulously crafted yet brimming with vitality, allowing us to both groove and connect emotionally.

‘Just Like In The Movies’ is a triumph of imagination and nostalgia, balancing cinematic storytelling with indie-rock verve. Esso has crafted an album that feels timeless yet immediate; delivering a record for anyone who’s ever wanted their life scored like a film, complete with laughter, longing, and the thrill of the next scene.