And We Shine
A Tant Réver du Roi, 2020
9/10
A very strong sophomore album from a French 6 piece, Princess Thailand bridge noise and pop with plenty of punk and no wave undertones on the 7 tunes here, where they even manage to reel in a flute amid the intensity.
The album gets off to an enticing start with the firm drumming and ‘80s post-punk nods of “First Time”, which reminds us of all the things we love about Siouxsie Sioux, and the energy continues with the fuzzed out New Wave prowess of the angular and rhythmic “Sonar”.
A record where every song is your favorite, “Now/Where” moves with an initially moody, languid appeal that bursts into dissonant noise-rock that’s still friendly with melodies, while “We Shine” takes a prettier approach with angelic singing that shifts into forceful rock near the end.
Deep cuts like “Night After Day” bring a bit of mystery with its dark melodies, thumping percussion and anthemic quality, and the buzzing synth of “Into Her Skin” finishes out the affair quieter but no less powerful in its gritty execution.
If genres like post-punk, ‘80 New Wave and indie-rock on the more abrasive side of the spectrum are in your interests, Princess Thailand are an outfit you should be familiar with, as this 2nd album is nothing short of exhilarating.
Travels well with: Cosse- Nothing Belongs To Anything; Hermetic Delight- F.A. Cult