New Music Critique: 222

A promising synth-pop duo, 222 balances retro (mainly ‘90s) with modern on crafty, hook-centric material that is “almost there.” “I’m Not Trying” maintains a nice churn and features the distinctive, echoing voice of Jade Howard. That song’s underlying darkness gives way to a bubblegum sweetness in “Across the Great Divide,” whose swirling, shimmering innocence could inspire a crowd to swoon and sway. Danny Hamlin’s vocal joins in on the up-energy “Everywhere We Go,” which is propelled by a bouncy beat and perhaps Howard’s best vocal. Overall, while 222’s songs are kinda catchy, a truly killer tune still eludes them. We also suggest elevating Howard’s vocal impact in all mixes.