As mainstream sounds continue to dominate, Elektric Animals carve out space for alternative indie to evolve within Colorado’s growing music scene. Their latest album, B&B MOTEL, blends nostalgic alternative elements with a fresh indie sound, setting it apart from what’s currently trending.
Created by the duo Nick Sanders and Will Hubert, the 10-track album includes five singles released ahead of its full debut, building anticipation while giving listeners an early sense of its direction. The project also features a collaboration with Lincoln Parish, former guitarist of Cage the Elephant, who contributes as both a guitarist and songwriter.
Opening track “LULLABY” sets the emotional foundation of the album, introducing themes of self-doubt and confusion within relationships. There’s a constant push and pull throughout the lyrics, with lines like “I really want to keep her” countered by “I really want to leave here,” and “Picturing a future” set against “Living on fake friends.” This tension conveys a sense of unresolved conflict, hinting that the album will continue to unpack these emotions.
“MUST BE THE MOON” serves as a strong follow-up, almost responding directly to “LULLABY.” Where the opening track turns inward, this one pushes outward, opening with “get out of my head” — a signal that the narrator is trying to escape those same spiraling thoughts. The shift from self-reflection to external chaos, blaming the confusion on something as distant as the moon, gives the album a sense of emotional unsteadiness. Rather than offering clarity, the transition feels intentionally messy, reflecting the ongoing struggle with unresolved feelings.
One of the most impactful tracks on the album is “SCREW IT,” which serves as an emotional turning point. Unlike earlier songs that linger in uncertainty, this one leans into clarity. The line “I’m leaving you and I cannot come back” carries a sense of finality — rather than romanticizing the relationship, the song confronts the cycles that never change.
Both “STUCK” and “MY MISTAKE” lean into a nostalgic punk influence, adding intensity and channeling the anger that comes with navigating a complicated relationship. Tracks like these create balance within the album, giving it greater emotional depth.
What makes B&B MOTEL such a great listen is its constant progression. Each track builds on the last, following a story that arrives at acceptance. Sonically, the album shifts between softer and louder instrumentation, mirroring the emotional highs and lows.
Overall, B&B MOTEL captures the connection between uncertainty and self-growth. By blending nostalgic alternative elements with a modern indie sound, Elektric Animals deliver an album that feels familiar yet refreshing — a standout addition to Colorado’s evolving music scene.
