The Dears--Gang of Losers

The newest release from Montreal’s The Dears is as dynamic and changing as their line-up. The album ranges from softly delicious pieces, to calming therapy sessions of picturesque sonic landscapes, to hints of Stooges and Sonic Youth, all smashed together in a package that takes a few listens to get your ear around it. "Death of Life We Want You" is a good start off track to get into the world of The Dears, it incorporates just enough punk and pop for your ear to find some familiar ground, and a taste of the vocals and melody themes that The Dears carry through the album. The rest of the album experiments by blending jazz, rock, orchestral, cabaret, pop, and soft sweet indie to create a wide range of sounds, mimicking The Smiths and The Postal Service at times, and referencing Dirty on Purpose and Of Montreal at others. "Fear Made the World Go ‘Round" is a great example, beginning with a subtle piano and mournful tones, and expanding into a face paced pop rock piece, carrying vocalist ‘s soulful style right to the fragile end. The Dears are complex and carry multiple levels in each song, and while some are obviously better than others, the album is worth a few listens, just so your ear can delve into The Dear’s dynamics. An pleasantly interestingly and appealing work, Gang of Losers shows off a new sound around each corner, and that keeps my ear coming back for more.

(Published at ComfortComes.com)