British band Coasts recently released their eponymous debut album to music consumers all over the world. The record is an upbeat, alt-pop collection of mostly love songs that have a strong appeal despite not necessarily being “one-of-a-kind”. What the record lacks in originality, it makes up in slick production and consistently confident vocal delivery.

Album opener “Oceans” is an effortless, mid-tempo cut that sets the tone for the album’s polished production and thoughtful lyrics. A fairly unique track in comparison to the other songs on the record, “Oceans” was a well-chosen introduction.

Another immediate highlight was monster ballad “Lions”. This track packs one of the more interesting, gritty, vocal deliveries on the record. Part of what makes Coasts stand out from the many other albums like it is the sincere emotion attached to every song. “Lions” makes more use of percussive instruments than any other track on the record, with an obvious transition from verse to chorus signaled by crashing drum patterns and breathy vocals.

By far, the crown jewel of the album is track #4, “Modern Love”. Being placed fairly early on the track list, is “Love” which is the first rock-influenced cut, incorporating consistent electric guitar use, frantic drums and heavy synths to break out of the more relaxed tone established by the first few songs. The track is an undeniable, arena-ready anthem that is both instantly gratifying and refreshingly sustainable.

Overall, Coasts is a successful first effort for the young band. Although not necessarily groundbreaking, the album is enjoyable and avoids most of the cliches and pitfalls commonly associated with the alt-pop genre. There is clearly effort behind every song — with no noticeable fillers — and the production quality and vocal delivery go a long way to justify the band’s platform for mainstream success.