The challenges of a generation
Modern life can be difficult; sometimes it feels way too hard and somehow way too fast. Slotface captures this better than others on their album Sorry for the Late Reply. The energetic beat and upfront lyrics, that are way too relatable, make this album a masterpiece. The band from Norway finds a way to speak to the audience in a manner not many bands can do anymore. Clearly this album is meant for a younger generation that invented the fear of missing out. It is very difficult to not sing or dance to the explosive songs, or at least nod along to them.
Sorry for the Late Reply is off to a great start with the previously released song “S.U.C.C.E.S.S,” it’s hard not to feel motivated while listening to the powerful beat and catchy chorus, yet it is a rather sarcastic song about people always trying to push harder and be better than everybody else. “Telepathetic” offers a clever play with words and another catchy chorus.
While there is probably no human being in this world who doesn’t want something better or some change, Slotface presents the soundtrack to getting stuff done. “Stuff” is another example of a song that will make everyone reflect on their life. “Luminous” describes the exciting feeling of spending the night with a person, how it is an intense moment that should last forever. “Tap the Pack” contains a line that is able to summarize college and/or dating for most people: “the more I learn the more confused I get.” By now, it is clear how relatable the album is and it is quite refreshing. “New year, New me” shows the audience again, how everyone has the same challenges and problems.
“Passport” breaks this pattern of daily-life-challenges a little. The song is clearly politically charged which is no surprise because Slotface is loved by fans for their activism. “Crying in Amsterdam” and its hard guitar riffs almost lead to an imaginary mosh pit inside the head. “Laughing at Funerals” has a slightly slower beat, and while Shea’s vocals are clearer than ever, the lyrics are darker than the rest of the album. “Static” offers an inside in the recording process of the album and has a pop sound. The song rapidly gains tempo and delivers catchy beats and lyrics.
The intro to “Sink or Swim” is also the title track, “Sorry for the Late Reply.” This could also be interpreted as an apology from our society to our planet. “Sink or Swim” is purely about climate change and the discussions surrounding it. The chorus is one of the most impactful on the album: it’s not politics, it’s sink or swim.” This song might be one of the highlights of the album and maybe, some people will rethink their attitude towards climate change. Sorry for the Late Reply ends on a very soft and quiet note, “Crying in Amsterdam (Reprise).” It also nicely concludes the topic of climate change.
Listening to Sorry for the late Reply is a great start to a new year and decade. This album manages to talk about some of the most important issues in modern life, especially for modern generations. The lyrics are simple and so easy to relate to. Slotface created something truly special here and it’s hard not to have this album on a continuous loop.
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