Sleaford Mods' latest offering, The Demise of Planet X, marks a shift in the duo's discography that sees them expand their sonic palette and vulnerability, thus broadening their appeal.
The album is a scathing commentary on societal ills, tackling topics such as financial despair, austerity, Brexit, and far-right ideologies. Jason Williamson's words are as biting as ever, painting vivid pictures of life in the digital age ("Weights and wanking / Hard bodies and phone lights / That's all we got"), empty lives devoid of substance, and the petty irritants that come with modern existence – from lazy dog walkers to Twitter tantrums.
However, The Demise of Planet X also reveals a softer side to Williamson. On tracks like Gina Was, he tackles themes of childhood trauma and vulnerability, showcasing a depth to his songwriting that's both poignant and cathartic. His lyrics are no longer just biting satire but also confessional and introspective.
Musically, Andrew Fearn is also experimenting with new sounds, incorporating classical strings on Double Diamond and collaborating with other artists on tracks like The Good Life. The latter features Gwendoline Christie's furious rap alongside Sleaford Mods' signature electro-punk, creating one of the band's most hauntingly catchy songs to date.
The album's greatest strength lies in its ability to balance Williamson's signature gruffness with a new vulnerability and emotional depth. Tracks like No Touch see him trading lyrics with Sue Tompkins, the former lead singer of Life Without Buildings, as they engage in a comically bickering rapport that humanizes Williamson's persona. This is no longer just about angry rants but also conversations about relationships, emotions, and the complexities of being a person.
The Demise of Planet X marks a triumphant evolution for Sleaford Mods, one that sees them expand their sonic palette while maintaining their trademark irreverence and wit. With this album, they've shown themselves to be more than just provocative provocateurs but also nuanced explorers of human emotion.
The album is a scathing commentary on societal ills, tackling topics such as financial despair, austerity, Brexit, and far-right ideologies. Jason Williamson's words are as biting as ever, painting vivid pictures of life in the digital age ("Weights and wanking / Hard bodies and phone lights / That's all we got"), empty lives devoid of substance, and the petty irritants that come with modern existence – from lazy dog walkers to Twitter tantrums.
However, The Demise of Planet X also reveals a softer side to Williamson. On tracks like Gina Was, he tackles themes of childhood trauma and vulnerability, showcasing a depth to his songwriting that's both poignant and cathartic. His lyrics are no longer just biting satire but also confessional and introspective.
Musically, Andrew Fearn is also experimenting with new sounds, incorporating classical strings on Double Diamond and collaborating with other artists on tracks like The Good Life. The latter features Gwendoline Christie's furious rap alongside Sleaford Mods' signature electro-punk, creating one of the band's most hauntingly catchy songs to date.
The album's greatest strength lies in its ability to balance Williamson's signature gruffness with a new vulnerability and emotional depth. Tracks like No Touch see him trading lyrics with Sue Tompkins, the former lead singer of Life Without Buildings, as they engage in a comically bickering rapport that humanizes Williamson's persona. This is no longer just about angry rants but also conversations about relationships, emotions, and the complexities of being a person.
The Demise of Planet X marks a triumphant evolution for Sleaford Mods, one that sees them expand their sonic palette while maintaining their trademark irreverence and wit. With this album, they've shown themselves to be more than just provocative provocateurs but also nuanced explorers of human emotion.