Viagra Boys - Welfare Jazz LP Vinyl Record
Ever the band drenched in satire, the Viagra Boys return with their brand of horn-filled, searing post-punk and rejection of standard genre trope's to deftly lay waste to society's normalisation of toxic masculinity, racism, misogyny, classism, and self-obsession. Even the album's title, “Welfare Jazz," has a layer of satirical depth; the transliteration from Swedish of the term used for the government's financial support of jazz musicians cuts to the quick of institutionalised classism and prioritisation.
The sound on "Welfare Jazz" is the bands established glam-phetamine trash disko bomp that made their first record so distinctive. It’s a ramshackle wad of low-end guitars that spit and burn like chip pan fires and boisterous oft intoxicated vocals with a surplus of undulating sax - but there’s something else that’s been added to their arsenal, something that was hiding in plain sight all along. The protagonist of these songs may not be all that apologetic as he pontificates of his transgressions, but he is at least man enough to put his grubby hands up and forewarn friends and lovers that he’s a little damaged.
Pressed on Classic Black Vinyl
Staff Review:
Swedish post-punk five piece Viagra Boys’ 2021 “Welfare Jazz" is an explosive follow up to their innovative debut. In just a handful of years, the bands reckless and energetic performances have torn up stages and turned heads across the globe. Fans everywhere (myself included) have been hanging out for this release and it has certainly delivered.
If you’re unfamiliar with Viagra Boys, they are satirical. Their post-punk is dirty, somewhat country-satire and jazz influenced. This band is raw. With their gloomy, raspy vocals, overdriven guitars, driving, sometimes synthetic bass-lines, catchy melodies, pounding drums and the occasional inclusion of saxophone, horns, flute, piano and more, it's evident that the Viagra Boys have captured a unique and stylistically diverse sound. One that is often reminiscent Nick Cave’s early days with The Birthday Party.
Their music is provocative but their punk approach to political themes carries progressive views. Using thoughtful and emotive lyrics, the protagonist expresses himself and reveals that he too is damaged and imperfect. The album closes with a unique take on "In Spite Of Ourselves” by John Prine, who passed earlier this year. Both duets, this track stood out to me as it features Amy Taylor of Amyl and the Sniffers. Viagra Boys reinvent the country original by slowing it down and garnishing it with some punk for a tribute to be remembered.
A second album that is tighter, tougher and more powerful than its predecessor, “Welfare Jazz's” established and fierce tone is a unique and refreshing listen. The lyrics are smart and the band show that they still have all the grit of their debut. All it leaves me asking myself is ‘When will I be able to see them live?'
8.5/10 - Handsome Will
TRACKLISTING
Side A:
- Ain't Nice
- Cold Play
- Toad
- This Old Dog
- Into The Sun
- Creatures
- 6 Shooter
Side B:
- Best In Show II
- Secret Canine Agent
- I Feel Alive
- Girls & Boys
- To The Country
- In Spite Of Ourselves
FREE SHIPPING Australia-wide on orders over $100!
Another great album proudly brought to you by Popcultcha. To check out our full range of Vinyl Records, click here.
