DEATH OF LOVERS – the acrobat – VINYL LP (blue in clear)

Since the 2014 release of Philly outfit Death Of Lovers’s acclaimed EP “Buried Under a World of Roses”, many wondered if a full length follow-up for the band was even possible – largely due to the extensive touring schedule of Domenic, Nick, and Kyle’s other band: Nothing. Between 2016 and 2017, the four piece band (that includes keyboard player CC Loo) was able to find the time to focus, demo, write, and carve out a stunning new direction and polished sound for the band. ‘The Acrobat’ represents that labor of love, and Death Of Lovers have created one of the most eye-opening alternative records we’ve heard in years.
Thoughtful compositions weave driving synths, drums and guitars through lock-step rhythm and nostalgia before shattering into intricate and spacious instrumental breaks. There is a welcome complexity and depth to the tracks, which dance between moody and sweeping to sparkling and bright – creating a beautiful contrast to the honest and dark lyrics.
On the single « The Absolute », Domenic’s vocals (accompanied in harmony by drummer Kyle Kimball) take on the topics of selfishness and greed – « All in all is trembling fear – bound to fall on bludgeoned bell rung ears. A senseless world of worth, deceived by needing, and the crow who perches on your tongue – reminding you it won’t be too long. »
« Lowly People » is the band’s answer to PULP’s « Common People », cast through the lens of their own upbringing: the streets of Kensington, Philly – where « Broken glass shimmers like the stars, summer air breeds a certain violence. »
Somehow, ‘The Acrobat’ achieves warm familiarity while sounding completely new. While the tracks could easily have been included on the soundtrack to every one of your favorite 80s films, there is a fresh perspective and process evident in the songwriting that rewrites the « post-punk » rulebook.