What An Uproar
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
An outfit that includes former keyboardist for Portugal. The Man, Ryan Neighbors, the Portland trio Hustle & Drone ended up scrapping the first 25 tunes penned for this sophomore album, instead writing these darker compositions that document the current state of their electro-pop vision.
“Dark Star” starts the listen with atmospheric electronica as soothing vocals enter the moody pop tune, and “Stranger” follows with layered, artistic, electro-pop ideas that take nods to the ‘80s FM dial.
Further along, things change drastically as “God Daughter” offers gentle piano balladry sans vocals, and this transitions into the hushed “Stuck Inside Of The Rain”, where expressive singing highlights the sparse environment.
Though the album dips into much calmer areas, “Raw As The Sun” returns to vibrant pop with a busy, buzzing display of beats amid the club friendly sounds, and the title track continues the pace with creative and energetic song craft that might make you want to pull out your old NIN records.
“Never Sleep Alone” exits the listen soulful and gentle, where soft percussion complements the emotive vocals of the forthright, sometimes gloomy exit.
Certainly a less accessible offering than their previous work. Hustle & Drone stay true to their artistic integrity here, and it results in one of the most interesting records of 2019 in the area of synth-pop.
Travels well with: Swans- leaving meaning; Joy Division- Closer