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Single/Download Review
The Radio Dept. OccupiedLabrador Records
Article written by
Kev W - Jun 17, 2015
The whole not rushing anything idea is something that's really paid dividends for The Radio Dept. After forming in 1995, it wasn't until 2003 that they released their stunning, scuzzy first album 'Lesser Matters'. Twelve years on and they're only just readying themselves for their fourth full-length. From those distorted, lo-fi beginnings they've gradually morphed into new shapes rather than resting on any laurels.
On the basis of 'Occupied', The Radio Dept. of 2015 are still influenced by dreampop and shoegaze, but have wandered a little closer to the dancefloor. The intro is snappy, 'Blue Monday' style beats before a maudlin organ introduces a familiar drone. Vocally we're in familiar territory too, but it's all mingled with '90s clubland synth stabs and piano. A strange combination then, but the blend of genres from the past makes for a surprisingly modern song that will satisfy fans new and old.