Here’s a thing; composers with post-rock and hardcore roots from the Washington DC community decide they want to make an electronica-influenced alt-rock record. Throw in some dreamy shoegaze vocals and Flavor Waster are sitting in a scene all on their own. In fact, it’s akin to listening to your skull cave in; terrifying and brutal, poetic and powerful, ‘It’s Always Sunny When You’re Cool’ is unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced…

That does not mean it’s wholly enjoyable, however.

The big issue is the sheer inconsistency, as ‘It’s Always Sunny When You’re Cool’ veers from inspired and exciting to dull and trying and back again so frequently it’s hard to grasp whether it’s an album that is often inspired or occasionally lucky.

It’s Always Sunny When You’re Cool by Flavor Waster

Additionally, the vocals are a constant sticking point. Jodi Jones sounds great, but I just wish there was a different dynamic or an alternative vocal to cut through the dream-like quality, adding depth and texture to the only constant to the group’s out-there sound.

It’s a shame, as when ‘It’s Always Sunny When You’re Cool’ is great, it’s one of the most thrilling records you could hear all year. Songs such as ‘Delta’ and the outstanding ‘Perils of Revolutionary Piety’ are brave, bold cuts of alt-rock that are ground-breaking and peerless.

3/5

‘It’s Always Sunny When You’re Cool’ by Flavor Waster is out now.

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Words by Rob Mair (@BobNightMair)