Yumi Zouma
Present Tense
(Polyvinyl)
4/5
Present Tense is the fourth album from New Zealand alternative pop quartet Yumi Zouma. Yumi Zouma—who have been together since 2014—faced a lot of obstacles creating this album because of COVID and them having to write music together while living in different countries.
Present Tense gives off a light-hearted feeling through the music, but the emotional lyrics are what really make the songs special.
This album has a very alternative indie sound that focuses on heartbreak and trying to stay motivated.
My favourite two songs out of the 10 on the album are “Give It Hell” and “Haunt.” There is variety on Present Tense, too—for example, “Give it Hell” gives off more of a pop feel and “Of Me and You” is a soulful duet.