"Preoccupations' fifth album reaffirms what '80s kids raised on the Psychedelic Furs, Echo and the Bunnymen internalized long ago: Post-punk is pop music."
"This time, Preoccupations express mental anguish and world-weary fatalism with more graceful gestures and, at times, genuine jubilation."
"While the gate-crashing rhythm matches the distressed tenor of Flegel's lyrics, the mood is brightened considerably by a buoyant chorus hook."
"As Flegel's words turn bleaker, the album's mood turns brighter."
Calgarian siblings Patrick and Matt Flegel reformed creatively after their indie-rock band Women dissolved in 2012. Patrick's Cindy Lee project contrasts with Matt's Preoccupations, the latter evolving through layers reminiscent of '80s post-punk. Their fifth album combines mental anguish with unexpectedly bright elements, showcasing a dualism between bleak lyrics and buoyant tunes. Notably, the opening cut features an ominous yet exciting door-knocking sound, signifying a blend of light and darkness. The album explores themes of impending despair while also highlighting moments of joy and celebration.
Read at Pitchfork
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