Viet Cong Review

Viet Cong, a post-punk band from Calgary, Alberta, have released a self-titled follow up to their 2014 debut, “Cassette”. Formed from members of Women, Viet Cong were almost destined to live in the shadow of their well-praised former art-rock outfit. Their newest LP; however, could persuade any reluctant old audience, and find new crowds with this album of timeless, noisy, and accessible post-punk tunes. Featuring distorted drums, dry vocal delivery, and abrasive synths, the four-piece has managed to put together another seven-song attempt that surpases their solid previous efforts.

Viet Cong radiates confidence and purpose with songs such as “Newspaper Spoons” and “March of Progress”, which go from demonic drum line to experimental post-punk in a matter of beats. All the while vocalist Matt Flegel manages cynical, “The National”-esque, lyrical content with lines such as, “If we’re lucky we’ll get old and die”, or “difficult existence under a civilian nation” that pose the kind of mind working from underneath the heavy heart of a winner desperate for another shot.

The first thing you will notice about the album is that it is loud. Distorted drums drive the first half, culminating in the appropriately named giant centerpiece, “March of Progress”, the standout track that builds up drums like a machine before it turns into a jam reminiscent of old Animal Collective. Before the song is over it transforms into a bass driven post-punk experiment, with the singer Matt Flegel crooning like a forlorn Morrissey, “What is the difference between love and hate?”

Another track, “Continental Shelf”, leaves you feeling rather spooked. Whether you hear the song alone or accompanied by the video, you’re taken back to being a child who is terrified to find out what lurks in your closet as all the lights go out. The guitar progression along with Flegel’s lingering voice make for the perfect gloomy day song.

Viet Cong’s self-titled LP doesn’t seem to have any weakness other than it’s seven-song run time. The album feels at some moments unhinged, but in its journey to cohesiveness the songs are at their best. I would recommend this album to anyone still reveling Joy Division, but gave the band New Order a shot.

Reviewed By: Cheyenne Heaslet