Dazed, somber indie rock
Gone are the days of innocent exploration. For many, nights spent partying and anticipating endless youth have transpired into evenings of reflection, a weathered state in which age takes life by the horns. The Breeders have been around for a while, establishing themselves as a ‘90s alternative rock sensation. Their latest release encapsulates the feelings of a party ending, or an overall party lifestyle coming to a close. Most of the tracks are three decades old as this is an anniversary release with the exception of two new songs added in. With this being said, the album almost feels nostalgic in the sense that the band was in an entirely different place personally when they wrote most of this album. As a result, each piece feels eerie and haunting, almost a statement to each member’s past self.
The album opens up with “New Year,” a blistering, crazy collection of sounds, all harnessed together with gritty rock orchestration. Some parts are heavily downtempo, almost alluding to a calm before the storm sensation. Quickly, the song shifts as sedated drumming is replaced with a whimsical jackhammer of energy. The guitars match this chaos as feedback echoes throughout the mix.
“Cannonball” comes next, featuring a slightly more put together arrangement relaying closer to the masses. This track has pop tendencies yet sounds like skate punk. The mix is abrasive yet comforting, certainly an interesting blend of emotions.
“Go Man Go” is one of the two new songs featured on Last Splash and it fits perfectly with its older counterparts. There isn’t really a difference in sound as the album transitions from remastered tracks to new music, a sign of longevity in a seasoned band.
Overall, this project is really fun to listen to as well as thought provoking. It is intelligent yet reckless, a perfect combination of all things that create a well-rounded life. It is a reflection of The Breeders, in how they were and how they have grown. Its beautiful to see songs almost thirty years of age thrown in with new tracks, an elegant collection of information, polished with a heightened sense of affection.
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