ALBUM REVIEW: Alt-J – Relaxer

Infectous

Released: 02.06.17
www.altjband.com

Alt-J’s critical and commercial approval doesn’t stop them being accused of being boring. After the departure of Gwil Sainsbury for 2014’s This Is All Yours, the band successfully explored the world of bluesy folktronica as a trio. Third effort Relaxer aims to thwack the heckles slung by the Alt-naysayers with more unpredictable songwriting and progressive structures.

3WW is an odd but wonderfully crafted ballad, contrasting with the Stranglers-like organ flourishes of In Cold Blood. But the hymnal whispers of Pleader and House Of The Rising Sun feel a little limp next to the chaotic garage rock of Hit Me Like That Snare. It might simply reaffirm the gripes of some, but Relaxer is a suitable kick against the pricks for those already on board.