Calgary based Sunglaciers recently dropped their third full length, entitled Regular Nature. On the surface, they are described as psychedelic post-punk, but given the wide range of sounds in their musical palette, I prefer to call it experimental pop.
The herky jerky album start with ‘Fakes’ is reminiscent of some of the out there new wave from the 80s. ‘Right Time’ is entrancing synth pop that hearkens back to my love affair with Wire’s early work. ‘Undermine’ is another throwback to fun electronic music from the 80s, with its toe tapping percussive elements. It morphs into spacey electronica near its end. ‘Cursed’ is the obvious hit of this song suite, chilly and rather morose, but lovely nonetheless. With its strong melodic base, it will stay with you after it fades out.
‘Kafka’ has some neat punkish energy to anchor it, a startling switch from the previous songs as it waves its new wave banner. ‘Frog Mask’ emits a whif of late 60s pastoral psych, wrapped by layers of synth. ‘A.I’ is slightly ominous with fun house organ (never mind the subject matter) and a sprinkling of discordant sax. ‘Not Ready’ is an odd tune with throbbing synth in an interesting melodic arrangement. ‘Rotten Teeth’ resonates a bit like Grizzly Bear, with a slightly off kilter melody and woozy vocals. The album closer is ‘Waiting for Nothing’ and it’s short but pretty, hinting at possible future directions.
Sunglaciers is a band with lots of neat ideas, maybe too many for one song suite. It is not ear candy by any means, but it will challenge you and unfold in unexpected ways if you give it time. Recommended for fans of experimental pop.
