Nearly a year after the release of their critically acclaimed sophomore album, Pirouette, Brooklyn based Model/Actriz are back with a brand new EP. Swan Songs, described by the band as a “capsule of experiments that form a moody vignette”, features three entirely new tracks, recorded shortly after the Pirouette sessions.
Featuring some of the harshest noise that the band have produced to date, this feels like a flashbang in a nightclub. The band’s omnipresent use of panic-inducing sounds creates an atmosphere of dread and anxiety, coupled with mesmeric beats and repetitive basslines. It’s poppy, dancey, visceral and hypnotic.
Across three varied tracks, vocalist Cole Haden‘s vulnerability draws you in and strikes an emotional chord. Although not entirely new territory for the band, ‘Thank You By Dido’ demonstrates a surprising awareness of harmony, elevating their usual brand of discordant noise and it serves as a suitable palate cleanser between songs.
“Model/Actriz are at their best when they fuse harsh existential noise with the repetitive allure of club music”
With his thoughtful exploitation of effects pedals, Jack Wetmore’s guitar often sounds like a meltdown in a nuclear power station while drummer Ruben Radlauer and bassist Aaron Shapiro lure you in with entrancing grooves. Haden lulls you gently to sleep, whilst the band pound you over the head and it makes for a glorious cacophony.
Model/Actriz are at their best when they fuse harsh existential noise with the repetitive allure of club music. Although Swan Songs encapsulates that essence, they use this opportunity to push the harsher elements of their sound, arguably further than ever before, without losing the pop sensibilities that make them so exciting.
It is no great detour from the trajectory they’ve navigated thus far, but maybe the EP title alludes in some way to where they might go next? It remains to be seen, but this will surely satisfy those eagerly waiting to find out.