Knucklebones by Strawpeople

Breakup songs can be really cliche, but there’s something about an artist processing the loss of a relationship through their dedicated artform that has me on the edge of my seat. In this case, I’m talking about New Zealand group Strawpeople and their new album Knucklebones, a delicately produced and effortlessly cool plunge into dark electropop. While the storytelling drives this album forward, the music and production choices set the perfect stage for the listener to get a sense of the meditative, sensual obsession running throughout.

Knucklebones opens by discussing the inextricable connection between two people reunited after an extended time apart. This ethereal craving for an intimate love that touches something intangible is where Knucklebones is at its best, masterfully communicating the feeling of constantly wanting. The latter half of the album is equally as obsessive and sensual, but things take a noticeable turn in attitude at the song Papercuts. It’s one of the weaker tracks musically but it marks a significant turning point in the pacing of the record, transforming into something bitter and angry. What was once soft and sublime is now violent and self destructive. The album ends by communicating the sticking nature of one’s experiences, so much so that they keep forgetting to forget someone that used to be a significant part of their life. With Knucklebones, Strawpeople invite you to consider the way a relationship can change so dramatically over time while keeping things laid-back and introspective.

-Carrie