Album Review: Pink Pony Harmony by Surfacetension
Alright, so let’s talk about Pink Pony Harmony, the 2016 album from Austrian rockers Surfacetension. It’s an alternative rock gem that kinda sneaks up on you. Released under Engine Records, this record feels like one of those albums you stumble upon in a dusty old record shop and end up loving for no reason other than it just hits right.
First off, let me say—this isn’t your typical polished, overproduced rock album. It’s got grit, heart, and a little bit of weirdness, which is exactly why I dig it. The band hails from Austria, but don’t expect any yodeling or alphorn solos here (thank god). Instead, they bring a raw energy that keeps things interesting.
Now, onto the tracks. There are five songs total, but two really stuck with me: “Rain Will Fall” and “Pink Pony Harmony.”
“Rain Will Fall” kicks things off with this moody vibe that’s equal parts brooding and catchy. The guitar riff is simple yet totally hypnotic, like something you’d hum while staring out a rainy window thinking about life choices. The vocals have this raspy edge to them, almost as if the singer stayed up all night chain-smoking and drinking cheap coffee before recording. And honestly? That works. It gives the track character. Plus, the lyrics stick in your head without being annoyingly obvious—a rare combo.
Then there’s the title track, “Pink Pony Harmony.” I mean, how can you not love a song named after a neon-colored horse? This one feels more upbeat compared to “Rain Will Fall,” but it still has that signature rough-around-the-edges charm. The chorus explodes into this big, anthemic moment that makes you wanna grab a beer and shout along—even if you’re alone in your living room looking like a lunatic. There’s also this quirky breakdown halfway through that throws you off guard, but instead of feeling out of place, it adds to the whole vibe. You’re left wondering, "What did I just listen to?" But in a good way.
The other tracks—“Itsy Bitsy,” “99%,” and “Nevermore”—are solid too, though they didn’t leave as much of an impression on me. They blend together nicely, filling out the album without overstaying their welcome. Honestly, at only five tracks, Pink Pony Harmony feels like the perfect length. It doesn’t drag, and every song earns its spot.
So yeah, what’s my take? Surfacetension might not be reinventing the wheel here, but who cares? Sometimes you just need music that feels real, unpretentious, and fun. If you’re into alt-rock with personality, give this one a spin. Just don’t blame me if “Pink Pony Harmony” gets stuck in your head for days.
Oh, and here’s a random thought to wrap this up: Why is it called Pink Pony Harmony? Like, was there a story behind the name, or did someone just randomly blurt it out during band practice? Either way, it’s memorable as hell, much like the album itself.
