Born in Ipswich but raised in Oklahoma, and fed an eclectic diet of music ranging from Parliament to Neil Young from a young age, Bartees Strange was always likely to bend genres. But rather than combining multiple elements to produce a unique sound, he has always tended towards a more ‘jukebox’ approach when piecing together his albums, with limited success.
But on Horror, his third studio LP, Strange has perfected the art of breaking genre altogether: creating an album which feels more like an expertly crafted mix compilation than a solo record. And while there is a nod towards a concept with a strong lyrical theme (“I get scared of erasure ‘cause it just seems to happen”, “Don’t fear what’s comin’, our blood’s the connection to truth”, “Buckle my knees, for miles afraid of the open road”), the record never feels restrained by its nominal theme of facing ones fears.
The reference points and frequent sharp turns into new sonic territory make the album feel much shorter than its 42-minute running time and satisfy the listener with every new hook.
Hit It Quit It opens with a classic Motown drum fill, before blending disco vibes with a four-to-the-floor rock chorus reminiscent of erstwhile Croydon nine-piece Do Me Bad Things.
Wants Needs starts like classic Foo Fighters before settling into a hard rock / RnB hybrid.
Lie 95 combines Prince’s vocal delivery with an MGMT-style big indie chorus and throws in some Neil Young (“Mining for a heart of gold”), just for good measure.
But the highlight of the album draws on much more subtle influences. Baltimore is pure, understated Americana, with an arrangement reminiscent of Cold Roses-era Ryan Adams combining with a melody which would have felt at home on David Ramirez’ high point, 2015’s Fables. It provides the solid perch around which the rest of this stunningly surprising record can spread its wings and fly. The first great record of 2025.
Matthew Ambrose presents Under The Radar on Tuesday evening at 7pm on Abbey104. Broadcasting on 104.7FM and online at abbey104.com.
