Algiers - The Underside of Power LP

A great follow up to the debut--- no real gigantic leaps towards a change in sound and that's a good thing because they are one of the more original mashups of varying styles working today... to me the songs are just better overall though the debut had a couple of stunners .. the production has improved and the sense of purpose and message seems stronger and even more relevant ... Vocals are passionate and simply powerful.. the beats and electronics separate them from the many proto blues outfits ... in general I loved the debut but this is better .... Algiers are a perfect blend of classic 60s early 70s Motown ... some post punk rock and electronic influences ... hiphop... protest singer anthems ... a little bit of the Clash and Pil and even NIN at times ... retro and forward thinking at the same time... one of the best records of the year and one of the more political ones as well... Some may be turned off by the BLM bent to some of the lyrics but there's no doubt they mean it and are passionate about the things they feel need to be addressed.... Haunting atmospheres .. in your face social politics ... blasts of energy followed by soundscape moodiness... this band has got it all in spades.... !!