Review: "Subglorious Songs For Subpar People" EP by Vogue Villains
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The Vancouver Island, BC based alt-rock band Vogue Villains craft an impeccable decadent world with “Subglorious Songs for Subpar People” for those who love their punk with just a hint of glam. A truly physical sound from the colossal riffs to the force of nature quality of the drums, the EP’s six songs deserve to be blasted.
Sly slinky grooves roll through the whole of the EP giving it a wild, unhinged sound. By far though, the true heart and soul of the EP comes from the fire and passion of the vocals. Lyrics are delivered with an unhinged, feral spirit to it. Layer upon layer filters into the mix with such flawlessness.
There’s a lot going on within these pieces, and the references abound throughout. A clear nod towards dance rock incorporates elements of Death From Above 1979’s newest incarnation, alongside elements of Interpol’s brooding darkness. Everything Vogue Villains do has their own distinct imprint on it, for they let the songs simmer. Nothing outright descends into the abyss; they merely flirt with the abyss in a way that feels acutely satisfying.
Building itself up into a frenzy is the patient churn of the opener “The Arsonist & Gasolina”. Small flourishes matter a great deal for they have a playful disposition to them. “Let the Wrong One In” lumbers forward in a way that recalls Primus at their most delightfully uninhibited. Elements of lounge filter into the swinging style of “New Striped Coat” for the song delves into a surrealist ode. By far the highlight of the album comes from the powerful “So You Say”. Full of such vigor, the guitar lines intermingle to create a virtual kaleidoscope of colors.
Various tonal shifts define the unease of “No Matter” where Vogue Villains embrace a bluesy disposition. Slowing the tempos down gives the track its own peculiar edge for every gesture is carefully considered. With “Subglorious”, the band nicely summarize all that came before in a way that feels satisfying and complete. Their sneering vocals work wonders as they delve into a woozy, unstable realm.
The Tony Sharkey produced “Subglorious Songs for Subpar People” EP shows off Vogue Villains’ uncanny ability to deliver a delightfully dark, weird and wonderful thing.