Album Review: Japandroids- Fate and Alcohol

The Canadian punk duo issued their final release

For 18 years, the Vancouver two-piece- Japandroids’ merger of classic rock and pop punk- has led to critical acclaim and international fame from what had initially begun as a DIY band. 

Ultimately, after three full-length albums, Japandroids released their final LP, Fate and Alcohol, on October 24, 2024, via Anti Records. With guitarist Brian King and drummer David Prowse sharing vocal duties, the duo cap off a career in 36 minutes of genre-blurring alt. rock. 

Fate and Alcohol offers a glimpse into a band at the end of their careers, as King and Prowse issue a sonic breath of relief from the rigors of touring and life as a professional musician. As the Album’s namesake suggests, the two wear their hearts on their sleeves about contributing factors of Japandroids demise, as the majority of the EP focuses on self-reflection, relationships, and, most notably, alcohol. Tracks such as “Chicago”, D and T”, and “Upon Sober Reflection” deliver an honest depiction of self-destructive coping mechanisms acquired over their careers. 

Despite consisting of only guitar and drums, King and Prowse masterfully create elaborate sonic foundations for their lyrical wit. King delivers folk-like storytelling through nasally pop punk vocals on depicted in “Positively 34th Street”. Despite Japandroids’ sparse instrumental approach, Fate and Alcohol maintains a deep and vibrant energy as King beautifully layers guitar loops on tracks such as “Eye Contact High” and “Upon Sober Reflection” while Prowse’s backing rhythm guides each melody through each verse and hook. 

Although Fate and Alcohol finds The Japandroids facing their end, a glimmer of optimism shines beneath each track regardless of whatever bleak circumstance is being detailed by King. Notably this concrete sense of hope is fulfilled within the album’s- and the Japandroids’ final track detailing the beginnings of a budding romance: “All Bets Are Off”. Perhaps being the sense of hope ultimately anticipation of a new chapter in life.