Time and again, The Polyphonic Spree have delivered the message of moving upward and onward with joy.
Frontman Tim DeLaughter and the current 22 active members of the band now use their considerable powers of light to present an album filled with contrast.
The surprise with Yes, It’s True, their fifth studio LP, is that their trademark positivity can be expressed more darkly.
The inescapably catchy ‘Popular By Design’ is the first hint of this, teaming DeLaughter’s drum machine with a dystopian choral refrain. Despite a moody undertone, the result is uplifting.
‘Carefully Try’ and ‘Heart Talk’ continue the theme of melancholic positivity, juxtaposing DeLaughter’s versatile voice against musical backgrounds that are darker than the lyrics running over them.
‘Battlefield’ makes no such distinction however, the words belying every sad moment before the song wanders off into a barren and discordant soundscape.
But don’t despair, the Spree who made their name with revival robes and turning towards the sun are here too.
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Album opener ‘You Don’t Know Me’ is a triumphant reminder not to let others get you down.
The synth-pop wonder ‘Raise Your Head’ charms like a glorious expat from an ‘80s movie credit sequence, soaring to hands-in-the-air, robust elation.
And ‘Hold Yourself Up’ is glorious and fresh, with a jangly chorus of sweet voices and exaltations to listen to the person who tells you to “aim right for the sky”.
Yes, It’s True is a well-crafted reminder that The Polyphonic Spree’s positive message not only has a flip side, but it has been hard won.
