“Non-Fiction” N0V3L
Vancouver-based post-punk band. Bass-driven, “polyrhythmic” tracks that incorporate elements of punk, funk and disco. Intense New Wave compositions with heavy doses of incisive, anti-establishment social commentary in the lyrics throughout. An impressive first full-length debut. RIYL: The Cure, Devo, Public Enemy or Parquet Courts.
— Francis

Recommended: 2, 7, 8, 4, 1, 3, 11. FCC on #4.

1. (2:55) Untouchable — Spirited romp. Sharp guitar attacks and a busy bass line ***
2. (3:40) Group Disease — Strutting groove with a catchy melody. ****
3. (2:13) En Masse — More stridently punky, incorporating mournful saxophone near the end. **
4. (5:35) Falling In Line — Off-kilter stumble — with several breaks featuring more measured, saxophone-flavored vignettes. *** FCC: pissed.
5. (2:25) Apath — Urgent, mesmerizing, pulsing.
6. (3:07) Interest Free — Shouted vocals with guitar stingers and tripping drums.
7. (3:24) Stranger — Agile, syncopated and melodic, with angular guitars and plaintive vocals. ***
8. (4:14) Violent & Paranoid — In-your-face punk with otherworldly elements. Starts with buzzy synths and a robotic voice, building to rapid-fire vocals and edgy guitars. ***
9. (2:32) Pushers — Frantic scamper with a complex mix of bass and guitar.
10. (6:47) Status — Stop-and-go — with reverbed vocals and sharp-edged guitars. Electronic effects in long trail-out.
11. (3:43) Notice Of Foreclosure — Funky groove as closer. Great bass line, with angular guitar and hypnotic monotone vocals. **