6/10

Originally set up as an outpouring of ideas for the two members to work on away from their more well-known bands (Cloud Nothings and Swindlella), Jayson Gerycz and Christopher Brown clearly haven't got it all out of their system just yet as the duo have now returned with a second studio album. And while sitting at a modest running time of about 30 minutes, 'Heydays' certainly does pack a punch in its small package.

But while the Total Babes project is seen as this extension to pair's own respective work, as a group, they still seem to have some trouble finding their sound. Flipping between a fast-paced indie-punk aesthetic and a more sombre flow, the pace of the record is constantly interrupted and makes this short yet sharp release feel longer in places. It's fun and outlandish intro is almost forgotten by the end and makes for a very segmented release.

Having said that, 'Heydays' does have its moments of joy, especially in the shape of 'Bone Dry Eyes' and the album's opener 'Blurred Time'. While it is still obvious that Total Babes are more of a musical stress release within the pair's own respective careers, the full-length does feel a little under loved and not on par with some of their better known work.