With the self implying new LP of Distortland, The Dandy Warhols have returned, exhibiting their evident capability, with a mix of psychedelic and grunge induced, 10-track piece of art.

This Oregon four piece begin the album with their distinctive sounds on ‘Search Party’. Resembling the distorted vocals of Ian Brown, a captivating tone is created with their juxtaposing busyness of Django Django tracks. A focus is set upon the present repetitive riffs, before a hushed ending concludes the track.

Showcasing their full potential is the opposing vibed tones of ‘Semper Fidelis’ and ‘All The Girls Of London’, with grunge elements being visible throughout. A darker approach to the track is evident to the prior, with distortion being present the entire duration of the track – it is obvious that the album title doesn’t put us under false illusions.

‘Pope Reverend Jim’ sees the introduction of upbeat rock riffs, with busier endings and distortion still clearly present. Though distortion is interchanged with the majestic yet distant melodies of ‘Catcher In The Rye’.

Both ‘STYGGO’ and ‘Give’ see the distance and distortion being replaced with acoustic and country elements with a beat; evident tranquility in comparison to those tracks before, yet holding a catchy melody with more focused vocals and a recurring majestic guitar work.

Despite continuing the tranquility for two songs, ‘You Are Killing Me’ contrasts these, with an attention grabbing introduction as a result of rock riffs, which are neutralized with harmonic backing vocals.

‘Doves’ sees the genre reverting back to the initial tones, with psychedelic and distortion being present alongside the angelic Courtney Taylor Taylor. Introducing the final track ‘The Grow Up Song’, with pure vocals and grunge guitar repressed throughout, the album concludes on a positive.

Distortland is out now via Dine Alone Records.

Lottie Stuart
@iminavest_