The sophomore album, Anti Pop Culture (March 15th) from Idiot Robot brings me joy.
As soon as lead track, “Color and Sound” kicks off, I’m taken back to the heyday of 90s grunge and it’s apropos it does so as Idiot Robot found inspiration from grunge greats Hüsker Dü, Mudhoney, Pavement, Screaming Trees, and more.
Clint Listing and Ryan Michalski both cover vocals, guitar, and bass with Ryan also on the drums and synths. While it’s only the two, they have created a sound that is a superb blend of rock and punk.
Clint describes the album’s sound as an ode to bands that were on Sub Pop, SST Records, and Matador Records. Labels that were (and still are) master influencers of sound and music.
On the lyrical influences, Clint says,
“The styles and themes of the album are written on our sleeves: Heart Break, Angst, Reflection, Wonder and Chaos.”
While the lyrical influences provide a clear roadmap for Anti Pop Culture, it’s the duo’s musical craftsmanship that truly brings these themes to life. With their blend of infectious riffs and overdriven guitars, Anti Pop Culture is heavy with a grungy edge, but the duo also isn’t afraid to play with styles and sound. There are poppier tracks and tracks that are heavier and more metal and rock. The duo further showcases their versatility by venturing into somewhat theatrical territories, adding depth and intrigue to their sound.
This commitment to experimentinging with different styles and sounds appears on the stand out track, “Dad & Mom.” Sonic appearances deceive here with the song coming across a serene. However, concealed within its ethereal melody and haunting atmosphere is an unsettling narrative. This juxtaposition of gentle melodies with darker themes further adds depth, albeit an eerie depth to the album.
With Idiot Robot’s ability to keep listeners on their toes, Anti Pop Culture is a fascinating exploration of sonic contrasts and thematic complexity.
MUST LISTEN TRACKS: “Color and Sound”, “When Angels Cry”, “Never Again”, “Dad & Mom”, “Stop”
