Dan Boeckner – ‘Boeckner!’ album review: space-age synths and rock formulas converge
THE SKINNY: Exploring the vast expanse of music preferences oftentimes lacks lustre when it becomes less innovative and more try-hard. Dan Boeckner’s mind is a library where new tapestries emerge from every corner, ready to unveil mass truths and revel in its ability to delight, entertain, and even enlighten.
Boeckner may have contributed to some of the most genre-defining sounds, but this new album proves his ability to truly deliver when given all liberties for freedom of expression. As a result, Boeckner! navigates the nuances of personal taste with ease, sounding as magical and resonant to the synth-pop lover as it would to the appreciator of rock ‘n’ roll.
To some, ‘accessibility’ means simplicity and a lack of originality, but Boeckner’s album naturally falls into this ease of listening space. The multiple layers allow even the most impassioned players to feel enriched by its cataclysmic urgency, as we’re left feeling as though Boeckner has willingly provided a glimpse into his own life while simultaneously holding up a mirror to ours.
Boeckner! crafts a world where space-age synths and alternative formulas converge, generating excitement akin to discovering dark wave for the first time after an endless search for music that doesn’t feel eclipsed by pretence. “Now I’m a walking phantom,” Boeckner sings, delivering a somewhat macabre brand of hope that may seem perplexing but is guaranteed to sit with you for a long while.
For fans of: Whiskey drinkers and deep thinkers who often contemplate whether they would suit the Robert Smith look.
A concluding comment from Major Tom: “Nice of you to join me.”
Boeckner! track by track:
Release Date: March 15 | Producer: Randall Dunn | Label: Sub Pop
‘Lose’: Signalling a new world, ‘Lose’ sets the scene perfectly as Boeckner’s vocals take you on a journey of energetic hopefulness and positivity. “Night watch at the radar station,” he sings, in a commanding tone reminiscent of David Bowie, as the melody draws you into its endearingly psychedelic atmosphere. [3.5/5]
‘Ghost in the Mirror’: This unassuming track has the potential to emerge more profoundly than any other on the album. With layers that guarantee multiple listens almost immediately, ‘Ghost in the Mirror’ may feel overwhelming at first, but once you uncover its layers, the magic is right there. [4/5]
‘Wrong’: This is the type of tune that immediately promises to take you on a journey. The chord progressions, along with Boeckner’s vocals, articulate the excitement of adventure, coupled with his signature dose of hope and optimism. [3.5/5]
‘Don’t Worry Baby’: Sometimes, the best tunes are the ones that don’t try to be anything other than pleasant – “Don’t worry baby, we will fly through stranger days,” Boeckner promises, with a glam-rock voice that transports you back to the 1970s. [4.5/5]
‘Dead Tourists’: Even though this tune risks falling victim to mid-album fatigue, Boeckner does well to keep it fresh with a simple melody and accompanying arrangements. It’s almost like he’s aware of the power of album chronology, as ‘Dead Tourists’ is less of a bore and more of a much-needed respite as you gear up for part two. [3/5]
‘Return to Life’: This beautiful, synth-driven track is difficult to predict on first listen. However, during the second, third, or fourth time around, everything falls into place as you “melt away” in its embrace. Bridging the gap between electronic and rock ‘n’ roll, ‘Return to Life’ is undeniably a standout and one that warrants multiple listens. [4.5/5]
‘Euphoria’: This song leans into Boeckner’s natural inclination towards darkness with a magnetism that feels like multiple things all at once. Perhaps it’s the work of Matt Chamberlain – whose credits include Fiona Apple and David Bowie – that contributes to this piece’s cosmic appeal. [4.5/5]
‘Holy is the Night’: Just as ‘Lose’ provided the perfect album opener, ‘Holy is the Night’ is a powerful curtain call. Slower and more considered than the other tracks on the album, ‘Holy is the Night’ feels a little more indie-pop than its counterparts. Still, it doesn’t feel out of place, which is probably yet another testament to Boeckner’s ability to make every kind of musical direction feel completely natural. [4/5]
Never Miss A Beat
The Far Out New Music Newsletter
All the latest New Music from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.