English band Courteeners have released their newest record Pink Cactus Cafe. Pink Cactus Cafe extends Courteeners’ range from indie-rock to pop and brings it all back in the end, wrapped in a neat bow. The musical journey from beginning to end is crisp, fresh and fun. The anticipated lead single, “Solitude of the Night Bus” is a feel-good, energetic anthem that wraps listeners in an infectious beat and catchy chorus. Lyrics such as, “until they leave me alone / leave me alone” are fresh and exciting; leaving the listener wanting more. Frontman Liam Fray’s vocal delivery on this up-tempo track is bouncy and flirty, adding to the song’s mesmerizing production of synths, whistles and thumping drums.
In contrast, the album’s opener, “Sweet Surrender,” is marked by strumming guitar production and lyrical escapism from the mundanity of everyday life. The track features Brooke Combe on backing vocals, adding a flair of mystery and vibrancy to the song’s breezy tone. “Weekend Shy of a Feeling,” continues this tone with its snappy opening and Fray’s lingering vocals. Lyrically, the song explores new avenues of life and enjoying the ride. The song’s tone and laid back production is light and airy entrancing the audience in its independence.
The following track, “Where Are We Now?” continues the breezy melodies and energetic vibe. Beginning with a climatic piano opening and dynamic drums, the song speaks of a growing relationship where the protagonist stands with this person. The memorable chorus: “Where Are We Now?/ ‘Cause I wanna be, wanna be yours” repeats the yearning for escapism within the modern world. Pink Cactus Cafe is filled with many collaborations and each one of the features add to the album’s themes and landscape. These collaborations help push the boundaries of the Courteeners’ musical palette, enabling listeners’ expectations to reach full potential.
Lyrically, the album tells a story of band’s journey filled with relationships, friendships and reminiscing the past in today’s society. Other highlights off of Pink Cactus Cafe include: “Lu Lu” and “Love You Any Less”, both tracks add a flair of freshness and glimmering hope throughout the mystic journey Courteeners have taken their audience on. The melodies are joyous and serve as a reflection of the nature of being immersed in summertime memories. It takes listeners into a simpler time, a time where they can relax, block out the noise of everyday life and live in the moment.
The album’s closer, “Bitten By Unseen Teeth” commands attention with Fray’s psychedelic vocals that cut through the passionate production. It brings the album and band full circle, experimenting with their sound and style. The Courteeners have crafted an album that will stand the test of time and continue their legacy as a band. Furthermore, Pink Cactus Cafe is a feast for old and new fans. Chock full of collaborations and filled with longing for past good times, Courteeners have managed to remain a force within the indie rock landscape.
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