Preoccupations

Self-titled (Jagjaguwar)

Formerly known as Viet Cong, the Canadian four-piece changed their name this year amid accusations of racism towards Vietnamese. This is modern post-punk to a tee with an array of gloomy melodies and repetitive rhythms. The Calgary group draw a strong influence from noise rock with bizarre and eerie soundscapes emanating throughout. Morose vocal work is a standout element with Zodiac carrying an almost Nick Cave feel. There’s no denying the conventional post-punk elements can come across as generic – Memory could be straight from a New Order record. But the melodies are still effective for the most part. It must be challenging for a band to rebrand but Preoccupations have the chops to pick up where they left off. – Hugh Collins