Though the gap between The New Pornographers' sixth album and its predecessor (2010's Together ) is the longest in the group's career, it's not like members were sitting around doing nothing. After all, the oft-dubbed "supergroup" is comprised of folks who are veterans of several other groups and/or have thriving solo careers of their own. That said, it is clear listening to Brill Bruisers that a little extra time went a long way. Though the group's members have kept themselves plenty busy in the interim, Brill Bruisers sounds like a band completely rejuvenated; A.C. Newman in particular is in fine form on this record (which, as chief songwriter, is the main reason for the return to form on display). The title track bursts forth with the same sunny energy that first drew my attention to the band over a decade ago. It's a statement of positive change, and it lets the album hit the ground running. Later, the one-two punch of Pixies space popper Wide...
SOMEHOW STILL A THING