Pet Shop Boys: Nonetheless
Pet Shop Boys, the iconic synth-pop duo, have returned with their 15th studio album, Nonetheless. Marking forty years since their debut single, West End Girls, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe have teamed up with producer James Ford, known for his work with Arctic Monkeys, Blur, and The Last Dinner Party. Nonetheless strikes a balance between familiarity and innovation, with tracks that evoke the duo’s past work while maintaining a fresh and contemporary sound. The album’s optimistic and upbeat atmosphere, tempered with moments of dreaminess, reflects the isolation and introspection of the Covid-19 lockdown period during which it was created. Standout tracks include Why Am I Dancing?, a reflection on the solitary dance parties of the pandemic, and New London Boy, which draws inspiration from David Bowie’s The London Boys to tell Tennant’s own story of relocation. Overall, Nonetheless is an emotionally resonant album that showcases the enduring artistry of Pet Shop Boys. (Score: 8/10)
Justice: Hyperdrama
French electronic duo Justice have released Hyperdrama, their first studio album in seven years. Departing from their signature heavy electronic sound, Hyperdrama incorporates elements of disco and funk. Justice has collaborated with Australian psychedelic musician Tame Impala on several tracks, a partnership that shines on lead single One Night/All Night, where Parker’s ethereal vocals soar over the electronic beat. While Generator showcases Justice’s trademark heavy sound, the disco and funk influences can lead to a lighter and less distinctive tone on certain tracks. Nonetheless, Justice’s production skills are undeniable, and the album features several potential dance floor anthems. (Score: 6/10)
St Vincent: All Born Screaming
Annie Clark, under her St Vincent persona, has released All Born Screaming, her seventh album and perhaps her most intense and unsettling work to date. The album opens with the sinister intro Hell Is Near, setting the tone for the percussive onslaught that follows. Reckless kicks the album into gear with its glitchy electronica and relentless drumming. The first half of the album features some of Clark’s fiercest guitar work, while the second half branches out into diverse styles. Violent Times captivates with its arresting brass hook and stunning vocal performance, and The Power’s Out evokes a dystopian past. Clark takes on solo production duties for the first time, echoing the horror-movie style of her long-time collaborator John Congleton. All Born Screaming is a challenging and rewarding album that showcases Clark’s fearless exploration of sound and emotion. (Score: 8/10)
Neil Young with Crazy Horse: Fu##in’ Up
Neil Young and his band Crazy Horse have rerecorded their 1990 album Ragged Glory on Fu##in’ Up. The album retains the raw energy and spontaneity of the original, with extended guitar solos and tracks stretching up to 15 minutes in length. Opener City Life blasts in with a blizzard of guitars, while Feels Like A Railroad showcases Young’s plaintive vocals. The title track, Heart Of Steel, is heavily distorted, and To Follow One’s Own Dream features Young’s harmonica. The album closes with the epic A Chance On Love, a 15-minute exploration of love and loss. Fu##in’ Up crackles with energy and power, giving these classic songs a new lease on life. (Score: 7/10)
