Laurence Avenue

"Laurence Avenue" is the sixth studio album by Filipino band Helsinki Border Patrol, released on April 1, 2034, under the Trench Records label. The album features a fusion of art rock, psychedelic pop, indie pop, and lo-fi elements, showcasing the band's experimentation with new sounds and genres. With lyrics in English, Tagalog, and sprinklings of Japanese and Greek, "Laurence Avenue" is a double album that explores various themes through its two distinct discs.

## Background

The album consists of two discs, each delving into different thematic territories. Disc 1 explores the experiences of band members Timothy Asuncion and John Santillan growing up in major urban areas in the Philippines due to their parents' work assignments. This disc serves as a satirical take on capitalism, offering a critical lens on the allure and drawbacks of city life. Disc 2 takes a conceptual approach, weaving together the band's own romantic experiences with an "overdramatized" gender-neutral teenage love story set in a modern city. It is a reflection on the romanticization of urban environments and the complexities of young love.

## Synopsis (disc 2)

"Laurence Avenue" tells the story of two senior high school students, Alex and Sam, whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. The album's title refers to the street where Alex's modest apartment is located, while the backdrop of their story is the Riverside Academy, a prestigious school in a bustling urban neighborhood.

The narrative unfolds through a series of interconnected songs, each capturing pivotal moments in Alex and Sam's evolving relationship. Their initial encounter takes place on the first day of school, where they are assigned adjacent seats in a classroom. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence and the stark differences in their backgrounds, their connection deepens.

Throughout the album, listeners are taken on a journey that explores themes of young love, self-discovery, and the contrast between privilege and modesty. "Laurence Avenue" delves into the intricate dynamics of their relationship, from stolen moments on the school rooftop to intimate conversations beneath the city's starlit sky.

As the album progresses, the two protagonists face the trials and tribulations of their teenage years, from the thrill of midnight drives to the vulnerability of sharing secrets. The story culminates in a poignant declaration of love amid the tranquil beauty of the mountains.

"Laurence Avenue" is a heartfelt exploration of youth, love, and the transformative power of connection. It paints a vivid picture of two individuals from different worlds coming together, navigating the complexities of their teenage years, and ultimately finding solace in each other's company amid the bustling backdrop of their urban lives.

## Production

The songwriting process for "Laurence Avenue" was meticulous and intricate. Timothy Asuncion and Alexander Nicoliadis, the main songwriters of the album, incorporated complex harmonies, unorthodox scales, and jazz influences, creating a distinctive musical landscape. The album also marked a departure from their previous pop rock sound, as the band delved into minimal pop elements while maintaining a strong rock foundation. The recording took place at Epitaph Studios in Makati, during the months of January and February 2035, with the album being produced by Michael Sakamoto.

Notably, according to Alexander Nicoliadis, the band's bassist, the genders of Alex and Sam were intentionally left unspecified. This deliberate choice allows listeners to project their own identities onto the characters, making their story universally relatable. Whether you're part of a couple or simply a teenager dreaming about the possibility of love, "Laurence Avenue" invites everyone to imagine themselves in the shoes of its protagonists and experience the beauty of a connection that transcends labels and boundaries.

## Musical Style

"Laurence Avenue" showcases Helsinki Border Patrol's versatility and willingness to experiment with different musical styles. The album seamlessly blends art rock, psychedelic pop, indie pop, and lo-fi elements, resulting in a unique and captivating sonic journey. The band's incorporation of electronic influences adds a modern and dynamic touch to their sound, further pushing the boundaries of their musical repertoire.

## Critical Reception

Upon its release, "Laurence Avenue" received a polarized response from listeners and critics alike. The album's ambitious blend of genres and its thematic complexity left some listeners divided. While some praised the band's willingness to explore new territories and their skillful incorporation of diverse musical elements, others found the album's experimentation to be challenging and overwhelming. Regardless of the mixed reception, "Laurence Avenue" was seen as a testament to Helsinki Border Patrol's artistic growth and their commitment to pushing boundaries within the Philippine music scene.

## Artwork

The album cover for "Laurence Avenue" is a clever nod to the album's title and themes. It features a directory sign similar to the ones found before Makati's pedestrian underpasses. The sign lists various locations, both real and plot-related, with their distances. Key locations such as "Laurence Avenue," "Riverside Academy," "Lezcano Village," and "Piedrabuena Mountains" are prominently displayed on the sign, creating a visual map of the album's narrative. The sign is set against a backdrop of urban scenery, giving a sense of place and context.

### "The Explanation The Of The Tracklist The"

A week after the release of Laurence Avenue, Asuncion and Nicoliadis posted a very impromptu explanation of the songs' meanings and how they relate to the overall story of the concept album.