Poetic funk

EVERYTHING NOW Arcade Fire

BEFORE talking about the latest work from a band that have been around since the turn of the millennium, firstly, it is important to establish the musical clout of Arcade Fire. It is a band from Montreal, Quebec, Canada, where some of the best music of today is being made

and still, many see them as being at the apex of musical creativity in the region.

Arcade Fire is as synonymous to Montreal as poutine, ice hockey and the biting cold winter. Its members are referred as musical role models by almost all Canadian musicians, and for a good reason. Having had the privilege to review its masterpiece

(2013), it’s hard to feel satisfied with only five stars to give the new record. Still, a review is a review, so here goes.

is the upcoming track, four years in the making as the band always pushes the bar on music. It is its poetic message to today’s generation, its protest against the corporate machinations of today’s world and its attempt to hold together a world quickly breaking to pieces.

The title track has already hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts, ensuring the message is not falling on deaf ears. Despite the keyboard attempting to direct you to a positive mood, the song clearly holds a message that warns against the illusion of information in a time where information is so readily accessible.

is the second single that makes you question the values you hold so dear, the ones you see on whatever screen you choose, and belittles every single one. The synthesisers and screaming backing vocals clearly channel frustration, and if the track doesn’t reach a dark place deep inside you, then, good for you.

brings familiarity to Arcade Fire fans, the funky vibes and deceptively simple vocals feel almost like episode two of Reflektor.

will again put Arcade Fire at the forefront for award nominations around the world, if not in the heart of listeners.

5/5 the best parts of fundamental hip hop), he stuck at it and kept working.

showcase his talent for sitting on his work until he found the best fit and the right answers from the right people (Charli XCX and Desiigner).

Damon Albarn is a personal hero, and he does not disappoint on both channelling the tropical influence of Mura Masa and the melancholy of the mastermind behind Gorillaz. The standout tracks, though, are the ones where the distinct house sounds invite a shuffling of feet and waving of hands.

Bonzai and Nao are perfect vocal support on and It’s only a matter time before (arguably) bigger names in music come knocking on his door, asking to lend his talents and his craft in the creation of their own albums.

5/5