Album Review: Justice – Hyperdrama

Justice has undeniably left an indelible imprint in the realm of dance music.

From their pioneering sound to their electrifying live performances, the duo has firmly established themselves as influential figures. Their innovative approach to blending electronic, rock and dance elements has garnered widespread acclaim, setting a new standard for sonic experimentation. Whether through their chart-topping releases or their unforgettable stage presence, Justice continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the dance world, cementing their legacy as trailblazers in the industry. 

After a lengthy eight-year hiatus following their previous album Woman, Justice finally unveiled their latest offering, Hyperdrama. This eagerly anticipated release marks a significant evolution in their musical journey. Hyperdrama showcases Justice’s signature blend of electronic, rock, and dance elements and sees the duo exploring new sonic territories with a fresh sense of experimentation.

The album starts with “Neverender,” a track that Justice collaborates on with Tame Impala. This song seamlessly merges dance elements with Tame Impala’s trademark psychedelic style, resulting in a mesmerizing sonic blend. Another notable collaboration with Tame Impala is found further on the album, titled “One Night /All Night.” In contrast to the upbeat and lively vibe of “Neverender,” this track delves into a darker and heavier sonic landscape, offering listeners a contrasting yet equally captivating experience. Sustaining a more groove-centric atmosphere, the composition integrates an addicting bassline reminiscent of the ’80s, all the while imbuing a psychedelic essence, courtesy of Tame Impala, amplifying its sonic depth and complexity. 

The track “Incognito” presents yet another standout moment on the album. Despite being entirely instrumental, the song is rich with a multitude of intricately woven elements that synergize and complement each other masterfully. It’s a sonic journey that begins with a particular vibe but gradually evolves into something entirely unexpected, showcasing the duo’s prowess in musical arrangement and progression. “Incognito” seamlessly transitions into a synthwave dance track, surprising listeners with its dynamic shift in tone and style, further highlighting Justice’s versatility and ability to keep their audience engaged. 

Moving deeper into the album, the track “Explorer” initially appears poised to provide a moment of respite, offering a slower-paced interlude intended to encourage introspection. However, this tranquil ambiance is quickly disrupted by an unexpected chopped-up synth motif, signaling a shift towards more intense rhythms and intricate keypad arrangements. This juxtaposition within “Explorer” not only challenges listeners’ expectations but also underscores Justice’s ability to seamlessly blend contrasting elements, ensuring the album remains dynamic and engaging throughout. Just past the two-minute mark of the song, listeners are enveloped by a spoken word passage reminiscent of the unsettling opening dialogue found in a horror film, effectively building palpable tension and anticipation within the musical narrative. 

Concluding the album is the fittingly titled track “The End,” which prominently showcases vocals and contributions from Thundercat. Serving as a definitive finale, the song effectively encapsulates the culmination of themes and emotions explored throughout the album. It provides a cathartic release, where the tension meticulously built up across preceding tracks is finally unraveled and resolved, offering listeners a satisfying conclusion to the musical journey.

Justice’s impact extends beyond their discography, as they have also gained recognition for their remix work, collaborating with artists across various genres. Their influence can be heard in the music of countless electronic and dance artists, and they remain celebrated figures in the global music community for their innovative boundary-pushing creativity. With this new project, the music is bold, electrifying, and unapologetically dark, earning them a dedicated fanbase and solidifying their reputation as innovators in the electronic music landscape.

Related Post
Leave a Comment