The only downside I have with Adult Leisure‘s sophomore EP, Present State of Joy and Grief, is that it’s only four tracks.
My admiration of the band began with “Control” and continued with their debut EP, The Weekend Ritual, which was our top EP for 2022 and with Present State of Joy and Grief, I can confidently declare my unwavering love and support for Adult Leisure.
Produced and mixed by Ollie Searle and mastered by Grant Berry (Boston Manor, Deaf Havana, Lottery Winners), the four song EP is a glittering amalgamation of groovy disco beats, catchy lyrics, and entrancing bass lines by James Laing, who I will always give recognition to for his exceptional bass contributions to the world.
In the words of the band,
When we began working on what would become the Present State, we set out to create a cohesive body of work that felt true to the band we are now and the place that we’re at in our lives. Lathered in waves of self reflection and acceptance of life’s heavy hands, our sophomore EP is drenched in honesty, whilst full of groove and fury in equal measure.
The EP indeed excels in delivering honesty, groove, and a touch of fury while exploring themes of unhealthy relationships, heartbreak, loss, change, and self-reflection.
The opening track, “All For You”, highlights the collective synergy of Adult Leisure and the talents of each member. James’ bass skills shine brilliantly, complemented by the rhythmic partnership with Nathan Searle. Guitarist David Woolfard and frontman Neil Scott hold their own, engaging in a seamless musical tête-à-tête with their bandmates.
Defying its title’s expectations on whether it could be a ballad or sad song, “You Weren’t There When I Needed” is a wonderful blend of jangly guitars and drums that are reminiscent of U2’s earlier work Joshua Tree. There’s wonderful chiming timbres and rolling drums that feel as if David and Nathan were channelling The Edge and Larry Mullen Jr.
About a minute and twenty seconds into “You Weren’t There When I Needed” is where the Adult Leisure magic emerges, showcasing their cohesiveness, tight harmonies, and melodious excellence.
“All Our Days Are Now So Quiet” introduces David Byrne-esque vibes from Neil and the song provides a moment of respite, albeit brief, before going full throttle and shoving one back into the groove with accentuated handclaps, what I believe is a saxophone, melodies, harmonies, danceable grooves, and rhythmic beats.
If one gets “Bad Idea” stuck in their head, they’re not shaking it off like a T-Swift song. Months after its release, “Bad Idea” is still an 80’s daydream perfection with rumbling bass lines, swaying synths, glorious riffs, upbeat drumming, and emotional vocals.
It’s a powerhouse song, and the perfect closure to Present State of Joy and Grief because it only leaves one craving more Adult Leisure.
Adult Leisure has brilliantly avoided the sophomore slump with Present State of Joy and Grief. The EP is all killer, no filler and only shows their continuing growth as a band. It also happens to show the wonderful talent and magic that is at the heart of Adult Leisure.
