The 1975’s ‘Notes On A Conditional Form’ is bringing a new, versatile sound to the band’s latest album.
The album is being released 22nd May 2020 and features alternative, indie and R&B styles amongst many other ambient and electronically based pieces.
It is a curious album which works its way into your head until you find yourself singing along throughout the day.
There is a confessional and explicit element helping to showcases the band’s versatility, however, the dramatic changes in the genre can feel as though you have someone else’s playlist on shuffle.
The impact of the first two tracks is impressive as a short speech from Greta Thunberg is featured before the dramatic track ‘People’ takes over. ‘People’ kicks the album off with lyrics dripping in sarcasm and irony, morphing into a heavy, wild and raunchy earworm.
There are, however, a couple of filler tracks and controversial pieces which are perhaps better suited to a film soundtrack.
‘The End (Music for Cars)’ is one of these more experimental pieces which scraps the bands usual itch for electric, replacing it with a more orchestral sound. There is no denying the beauty of the symphony although it is partially lost amongst the constant switching of genres.
If you are searching for a typical 1975 track, ‘If your too shy (let me know)’ and ‘Me and you together’ are classic examples. The uplifting tracks are instantly likeable and radiate the infectious playful sounds that the band are so well known for.
The recognisable vocals of Matty Healy shine through, especially within the softer sounds of ‘Then Because She Goes’ which filters pretty ambience into a mellow love song.
A handful of tracks utilise this peace and calm to create the perfect ‘chill-out’ vibe as in ‘Frail State of Mind’ where the main melody is blended in beautifully amongst the instruments.
The constant switching of genres can limit the effect of many of the tracks, especially with the introduction of ‘Yeah I know’ and ‘What Should I Say’ which throws in the electronic noise of glitches and broken sounds against the previous calm.
Although the album can be very hit-or-miss, it is strikingly unapologetic. The album flickers between personal and universal issues however, not enough time is spent on either topic at one time to fully address what that is.
Despite this, there are some real earworms in the mix that you will find yourself humming and singing along to in no time!