Blueprint Tokyo, based in Oklahoma City, is set to release their newest albumNeon Circuits and the Mission of Hopeon May 30th, 2025. Fans of the band and of indie rock music in general will be ecstatic at the arrival of this album. With 16 tracksNeon Circuits and the Mission of Hopehas something for everyone and a listen time to be envied. The first song on the album is “Say Anything,” a synth laden smooth and focused track. “Say Anything” is a great opener, it’s catchy and fun with a nuanced indie vibe that keeps it interesting.
Second up is “Replicants,” an exciting and lyric heavy song that breathes nostalgia with a robust drum beat and polished keys. “Take My Breath” comes in third and is an emotionally charged listen, with vulnerable lyrics and a seductive saxophone. The synth and thrumming drums gives “Take My Breath” a sound reminiscent of 1980’s pop, with a modern twist. This song certainly takes this listener’s breath away!
“Take My Breath” is followed by another nostalgia drenched song, “A Whole New Life,” which continues the neon aesthetic of this album with 1980’s sounds and references. This fourth song takes a distinctly indie approach, which can be heard to an extent in its predecessors, but to which “A Whole New Life” takes to a whole new level.This song is simultaneously mellow and ebullient, sandwiched perfectly in between the more emotional “Take My Breath” and the lively fifth song, “Mission Control.”
“Closed Door Drama” comes in sixth, with a satisfying guitar line and raw vocals this song feels more rock focused than a lot ofNeon Circuits and the Mission of Hope’sfirst tracks. The energy of this song is focused and intense, bringing the listener on an auditory journey of intense pain and yearning. It’s followed closely by the stratospheric “Stranger Things,” a song that starts off with pleading words from Blueprint Tokyo’s vocalist, giving the song an immediate intense energy that somewhat ebbs and flows throughout the approximately three minutes of music.
The eighth track is “Stand and Deliver,” another emotionally prevalent soundscape. This song utilizes more laid back vocals and an emphasis on the drums to create a vulnerable vibe that permeates the instrumentals and lyrics alike. It’s followed with “Invisible Year,” a track that starts off with a striking guitar line that feels particularly indie rock in sound. “Invisible Year” is a perfect listen for rock fans looking for a gateway to more indie-sounding music, with crucial rock elements present in the song while also presenting some newer indie aspects.
“Dragons” is the tenth track and it lives up to its grandiose title, with its sprawling instrumentals and fantastical lyrics this song is unique and interesting. The eleventh song of the album is “Only Hearts,” a sentimental and intense song that is highlighted by raw vocals and a compelling bass line. It’s followed by the up-beat and exciting “Connected Lines,” which stands out for its passionate lyrics and memorable guitar lines.
“Transfer” is another fun-loving track, the electric guitar feels particularly rock-focused, emphasized by the catchy melodies and textured drums. The vocals on “Transfer” also feel heavily in-tune with the contemporary rock sound, reminiscent of bands such as Coldplay and The Killers. “Infused” returns to the emotional energy of previous songs such as “Take My Breath” and “Stand and Deliver.” It’s a great way to follow up the fun and rocking “Transfer,” while maintaining the momentum of the album.
The penultimate track is “Take Me Anyplace,” a song that is on the mellower side of things, while simultaneously preserving an upbeat energy that keeps the song lively. High vocals and harmonies give “Take Me Anyplace” a unique sound on the album. The final song onNeon Circuits and the Mission of Hopeis “Sailor Girl,” a fun and vulnerable track that showcases extremely catchy and repetitive lyrics. We also get another glimpse of that saxophone as heard in “Take My Breath,” a much welcome comeback. This album is great for all indie-rock and rock fans alike, it’s original but honest to the genre and a cohesive project that spans many sounds, energies, and decades.
Written by GraceyDowner