Fortuna

Fortuna, the second full length from NZ trio Popstrangers, trades thegrunge revivalism of the bands previous releases for buoyant hooks and 60s pop. Pairing their minor-key riffs with pervasively melancholic songwriting, the bands refined sense of melody is on full display.

Recorded over five days in London, Popstrangers warped tales of infatuation and aggression are anchored by Joel Flygers tactile vocals, which steep in subterranean effects before ripping clean through the albums choruses. The bands pop sensibilities are at their best on standout Country Kills, where Flyger shrugs off his looming demise with a wink and an indelible riff. The band is quick to tamperFortuna's catchy strains with atonal guitars and a nervous pace, the records building sense of anxiety concluding with the psych comedown of Whats On Your Mind?

Even at its bleakest, Fortuna reveals more colors and emotions at the band's disposal than Antipodes did, and its unsettled songs become oddly comforting and endearing with repeated listening. - All Music

Fortuna projects a confidence and self-belief that wasnt all that perceptible on the rough-hewn Antipodes. - Pitchfork

Tracklisting

1. Sandstorm
2.  Don't Be Afraid
3.  Distress
4.  Country Kills
5.  Violet  
6. Tonight
7.  Her
8. Destine
9.  Right Babies
10. What's On Your Mind