Nation of Language

Strange Disciple – PIAS

Not only is this new album by Nation of Language, Strange Disciple, a love letter to 80s synth-pop dominated by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and Human League, but the album itself is a collection of love letters from singer/songwriter Ian Richard Devaney to the object of his affection. While love is the theme, it presents itself as unrequited, obsessive, pure, delightful, beautiful, and agonizing – much like life itself.

It is seriously so hard not to make comparisons to the great 80s bands that I have listened to all my life. With that said, I’ll give a few when talking about some of the standout tracks. Track 2, “Sole Obsession,” has a Human League/Visage electro-bump. In fact, I’d also lean towards Ultravox’s classic, “Reap the Wild Wind,” (give it a listen) as a close relative. The first track on the album, “Weak in Your Light,” is a determined love song that sonically has shades of early Depeche Mode. A darker synth loop dominates, combining with Devaney’s monotone delivery. “Too Much, Enough,” track 5, has a pulsating rhythm and a wonderfully fun vocal. It is a pumping soundscape of neon and lasers. Track 8, Stumbling Still,” harkens back to early New Order – stop/start vocals with a genuine new wave feel. I am really digging the gothy twists of track 10, “I Will Never Learn.”

Growing up listening to the giants of 80s electronic music, hearing this nostalgic music makes me smile. Nation of Language surely have taken hold of that sound but have skillfully crafted something new without sounding like they are playing retro tunes. The Brooklyn trio’s third album is a statement that they are here and this fresh approach to the genre is one that is modern and future forward. This may end up on a lot of year-end top ten lists.

They play the Cat’s Cradle on November 9th!

My favorites: 2**, 1**, 5**, 8**, and 10*.

– (h)earwitness