Algiers - The Underside Of Power (Matador) 2017
9
The fact you can talk for hours about Algiers ignoring the fact that they are sonically one of the most adventurous, exciting, and challenging bands around is a testament to their importance and vitality. Their self-titled debut album was very clear in that regard, but on their second album, the Atlanta-formed gospel/folk/industrial/punk/soul/experimental quartet seems to have found new ways to reinforce the strength of their messages, both sonically and lyrically.
In a time where the political and social landscape in the US has Trump as the leading and dominating subject matter, Algiers make an effort to broaden the scope to whoever is listening by enabling a sort of understanding that these dark times are a persistent symptom in our history – nothing new. But The Underside of Power isn’t completely cynical or pessimist as one of its main influences can attest – Albert Camus’ novel The Plague, which “It’s about people finding themselves in very dark times”.
For all the unpleasant subject matters and fucked up/dark sounds, there’s a counterbalance made up with beautifully crafted melodies and chants, and a huge and reassuring scream that says (and feels): THERE’S HOPE!