On The New Pornographers’ latest album, ‘The Former Site of,’ the band adapts an electric indie vibe filled with a blend of harmonious choruses and striking chords on keys and guitar. These songs are like snapshots, or “short stories” taken from the lives of everyday folks like you or me.
Consisting of A.C. Newman (vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards), John Collins (bass, guitar, keyboards), Kathryn Calder (keyboards, vocals), Neko Case (vocals), and Todd Fancey (guitar), the band also includes session musicians who play an integral part in making the sound come alive.
Immediately, I was impressed by the music. The album opens up with “Great Princess Story,” with Newman’s intimate vocals reeling you in. This up-and-close performance was backed up by Calder and Case on vocals. The layered, combined vocal harmonies felt very dynamic to my ears. The live drums on this recording were also fantastic.
The New Pornographers really did a good job with their tenth studio effort. Everything from the instrumentation to the arrangements, vocals, and production was very polished. Right when I hit play, I was left amazed by the band’s well-put-together sound.
Toward “Pure Sticker Shock,” you get more of the band’s dynamic sound. Here, some oscillating synths as well as a drumming beat send some electric vibes. The combined vocal harmonies, which are shouted out for that something extra, reminded me of Modest Mouse and bands like The Shins and Pinback.
The group does a good job of mixing organic as well as synthetic instrumentation into the overall sounds. It was a good balance of both worlds, and I didn’t find anything lacking in their sound. It felt like, while listening to this album, that each track was unique and could stand alone on its own. That being said, some of the other gems on this album include the western vibes coming from “Ballad of the Last Payphone,” and the compellingly metaphoric “Wine Remembers The Water.”
While listening to these songs, I got the sense that these tracks can come off as introspective and dark. Despite their pensive vibes, there are hints of golden moments that cannot be missed—the band’s message that hope prevails no matter what is a prevalent reminder that light exists even in the darkest shadow.
Tracks like “Spooky Action” and “Calligraphy” serve as a welcoming breather in between the heavier songs. While more contemplative tracks like “Wish You Could See Me I’m Killing It” and “Votive” follow a more somber path.
Perfected to a tee and meticulously crafted, The New Pornographers demanding sound will leave you wanting more. Even after the ending note of the closer, the self-titled, “The Former Site of,” you’ll be finding yourself hitting replay soon after. The captivating sounds don’t just die after the final note; no, they’ll live in your mind as the catchy choruses and melodies leave a haunting impression on your heart and soul. So memorable are these tracks that you’ll catch yourself humming away to these irresistible melodies throughout your day.
SCORE/Outstanding: The New Pornographers show their chops with this latest release that delivers on all counts. You get everything from a bit of introspection, quirkiness, pensive, and haunting. This is a balanced record filled with rich instrumentals, dynamic combined vocal harmonies, and interweaving melodies that will leave you stunned. Without a doubt, ‘A Former Site Of’ is a well-thought-out album that perfectly showcases the band’s craft and musicianship. Every track stood out to me, with absolutely no filler. From start to finish, this was a great album worthy of multiple repeated listens.
[We rank singles, EPs, and albums on a scale of Poor, Mediocre, Good, Excellent, and Outstanding]
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