"It's an ode to depression," says singer Matt Flegel about Preoccupations' third album, New Material. The 8-tracker shows the band's firm grasp of its sound, a gritty brand of post-punk w/ "evocative and razor-sharp" textures. Add flegel's dense lyrics to the mix, what comes forth is a collection of complex, somber songs that warrant repeated listens. Check out "Compliance," an epic instrumental closer that's beautifully dark and tense, or "Espionage," a mechanical uptempo number that stands out as one of the more melodic tunes. Other highlights include "Disarray," "Antidote," and "Decompose."

• grey streak vinyl
• includes digital download
• music label: Jagjaguwar 2018

reviewed by rei kwondo 04/2018