A befitting title as the holidays approach, Background Music For Family Arguments is the compelling new album from Helsinki-based band Drug Store Raid. Thematically embracing individuality and uniqueness in personal character and musical pursuits alike, the release unveils a balance of punchy and moody intrigue — dazzling with a whirlwind of danceable pop, grimy post-punk, funk, jazz, and no-wave. Whether in the punchy Talking Heads-esque vigor within “Phar Mac is T” or the Swans-like foreboding of “Suzy,” Background Music For Family Arguments consistently grips with its artful, structurally dynamic sound.
An impressive number of quality songs show throughout, including the standout “Gutter,” which the band describes as “a song about God, violence, water parks, sharks and bleach.” Shout-y vocal intensity pairs with a post-punk bass-y reverberations, resembling a more left-field Pixies in its passionate vocal ascent and whirring guitar complements.
“Fashion Fashion” is another highlight, reveling in a brass-y funk-pop invigoration; the steady vocal suaveness and higher-pitched reflections meld with a dexterous bass drive for a replay-inducing immersion; shades of Madness show in the latter vocal sections and sporadic brass. Background Music For Family Arguments is a delectably stylish success from Drug Store Raid.
—
“Gutter” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
