Album Review: Slow Pulp – Yard

Navigating the treacherous waters of the sophomore album is a feat few bands manage gracefully. Yet, Chicago-based Slow Pulp has done just that with their latest offering, “Yard”, which is out now via Anti-.

Opening with “Gone 2,” the track delves in with rich harmonies. It’s a warm welcome for the listener and sets the tone for the deep introspective journey that is Yard.

“Doubt” swiftly follows, creating a harmonic balance with its captivating rhythms and vocals, reminding us of the band’s innate ability to encapsulate raw emotions in a catchy tune. “Cramps” then turns the energy up a notch, displaying the band’s edgier, more aggressive, side. This isn’t just a band that can pull at your heartstrings – they can make your heart race too.

Watch Slow Pulp’s “Cramps” visualizer below

Previously released single, “Slugs,” emanates a sense of nostalgia, reflecting on those fleeting memories of young love and the sensations of a long-gone summer. Meanwhile, album title track “Yard” stands out as a testament to the band’s impressive musical evolution, harmoniously melding the ensemble’s varied influences. It captures the album’s introspective mood and delivers with, arguably, the most haunting chorus line on the record, “I don’t wanna be I’m selfish”.

For “Carina Phone 1000”, the pace of Yard distinctly changes. The song’s gentle tunes evoke feelings of cherished memories with a dear friend. In contrast, “Worm” thrusts Slow Pulp‘s edgy guitar-driven essence back into the spotlight, blending catchy riffs with heartfelt lyrics. It’s a track poised to electrify live audiences.

By the time that the listener has made it to “MUD”, it’s evident that Slow Pulp isn’t here to be pigeonholed into a single genre. The band seamlessly move between folksy indie nuances to bolder garage rock terrains throughout Yard. “Broadview” then slows the pace yet again, providing listeners with a breather, a moment of reprieve, before the album concludes with the serene tones of “Fishes.” The album closer that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the band’s journey throughout this album – reflective, bold, and utterly mesmerizing.

Yard is out now via Anti-. For more information on Slow Pulp, visit their website here.