Unlike the rest of the mid-naughties indie scene they originated from, We Are Scientists have steered away from the cash-in’s of reunions, reissues and anniversaries and have kept on delivering the goods. You can always count on the New York based duo to emerge every couple of years with a new record, usually boasting an arsenal of indie hits. It’s this consistency that has made them modern indie treasures and is why each new release is always awaited in anticipation.

It’s been a whole decade since the band released second album ‘Brain Thrust Mastery‘, which was quite a step up in sound from their floor filling debut. Although it still packed an indie-rock punch, sonically it was covered in this 80’s inspired glittery sheen, which the band have brought back for their sixth album ‘Megaplex‘.

The main difference with this new opus is the distinct influence of modern pop. Opening track ‘One In, One Out’ brings a charming electro pulse right up front, while ‘Heart Is a Weapon‘ takes on the 80’s synth sass that currently dominates the radio. It’s a welcome homage and doesn’t feel contrived or cringey, thanks to the band’s excellent song craftsmanship and knack for a catchy as hell earworm.

The main idea for this record is to either sink into a catchy hook, like on the sprightly ‘Not Another Word‘, or simply soak into a huge chorus like on ‘No Wait At Five Leaves‘. Although all the tracks are varied in sound, they’re all tied together with this glossy pop tone, all destined to be sang out loud with arms aloft, whether it’s at a show or in the shower.

It’s not all glitz and gloss however, as We Are Scientists do add some indie-rock bite with tracks ‘Your Light Has Changed‘ and ‘Now Or Never‘, bringing back the guitar driven crunch of earlier material. The former is probably one of the best rock songs they’ve written, complete with a driving chorus, while ‘Now Or Never‘ has this grungy opening that soars into a chunky chorus that recalls a deep cut from the ‘TV En Francais‘ record.

We Are Scientists have a reputation for being funny dudes, but they tend to keep their comic tendencies away from their song writing. ‘Megaplex‘ does see the band injecting some humour into proceedings however, whether it’s a tongue-in-cheek lyric, an over the top guitar solo or a cheeky synth line, there is an underlying sense of fun that runs throughout it. The band seem pretty unashamed in bringing the pop to the forefront here and sonically this is their most plush sounding set to date.

My thoughts on ‘Megaplex‘ are not too dissimilar from what I thought of its predecessor ‘Helter Seltzer‘; it carries some massive tunes, but some land better than others. But despite it not being straight bangers, it must be said that when it’s good, it’s great! We Are Scientists have written some of their catchiest hooks yet and the fact that they’ve pushed their sonic boundaries further whilst still trying to bring the party makes for a genuinely enjoyable return. It might not be for all fans, but if you’re ready to embrace some sparkly pop vibes, this record is sure to bring a big old summer sized grin to your mush.

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