No Nostalgia
Climax!, 2022
8/10
A Los Angeles quartet who return with this sophomore album, Agender brings an immediate rawness and Gothic tendencies to these very socially aware anthems that are based firmly in post-punk territory.
“Avoid A Void” opens the listen with dense guitar, thumping drums and playful synth as a dance-rock meets post-punk delivery unfolds with a bit of darkness, and “Woah Life Wow” continues the memorable formula with a very exciting version of synth-punk that’s complete with ‘woah ohs’ in the vocals.
Further into the listen, the hazy “Preach” brings a slow, buzzing atmosphere that’s a bit cinematic, while “Trouble And Desire” recruits a disco-punk appeal that’s a bit retro and showcases Romy Hoffman’s diverse pipes amid a bit of ominousness.
Deeper yet, “Womb 2 Wound” is a lyrically outspoken and musically haunting display of timeless post-punk nods, and “The Extinction Of Handwriting” exits with some New Wave moments before settling into a repetitive and hypnotic execution that you can’t help but be enamored with.
Agender is made up of the Australian lead singer, guitarist and synth expert Romy Hoffman, bassist Cristy Michel, drummer Christy Greenwood and synth player Sara Rivas. Together, their collective strength makes for a clever, sometimes funny and wise peek at today’s society thanks to their charming brand of modern post-punk.
Travels well with: Fotoform- Horizons; Swerve- Ruin Your Day