Right from the very start, Propagandhi’s sixth studio album, Failed States, sets itself up for a killer 37 minutes.
The opening track, “Note to Self”, begins with a surprisingly unique swirling instrumental intro, which then crashes into a story about the inner mind of a first-world inmate.
In true Propagandhi fashion, the album is littered with political warnings and stories – the album title itself taken from a Noam Chomsky book – and the themes move effortlessly though big topic global issues; from ecocide, to imperialist wars and rampant, psychotic consumerism.
However, when the album isn’t attempting to save the world from its problems, the band take a moment to move into a more playful mode.
“Things I Like” is a song about, well, things the singer, Chris Hannah, likes – maple leaves, profound mysteries, “and I like rowdy fuckin’ Pride parade”. You name it – and thank the proverbial God – the album was at risk of becoming too preachy.
Despite the high expectations driven by their last successful album, Supporting Caste, and the strong potential of the lead title track inspiring an onslaught of positive internet commentary (“you bastards are still tight!”) – fans will not be disappointed.
The band has maintained its innovative instrumental image – much of the sound evoking provocative emotions through loud, crashing, yet honest and distinctive instrumentals.
– Tara Emily
