Sorry’s New Album ‘COSPLAY’ Explores Dark Identities in Music

The British band Sorry has released their third studio album, titled COSPLAY, which delves into themes of identity and transformation. The album presents a complex landscape where the lines between reality and imagination blur, inviting listeners to explore the depths of their own perceptions.

In COSPLAY, the band describes a journey through ambiguity, stating, “We died when we started writing this album.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of their latest work, which encourages listeners to lose themselves in its intricate layers. Each track represents a unique character, contributing to an overall narrative that intertwines confusion and creativity.

The lead single, Waxwing, exemplifies this exploration of darker themes. With its seductive undertones, the track reinterprets the familiar chant of “Oh Mickey, you’re so fine,” transforming it into a haunting reflection on obsession. The shift in tone marks a significant evolution from their previous albums, 925 and Anywhere But Here, which showcased a lighter, instinctual approach to songwriting.

Innovative Soundscapes and Personal Touches

The creation of COSPLAY involved a collaborative effort between band members Louis O’Bryen and Asha Lorenz, who began developing demos in their shared studio. This intimate setting allowed for the organic evolution of the tracks, preserving the raw energy of their initial takes. The album also incorporates a variety of samples, such as the use of Guided By Voices’ “Hot Freaks” in the track Jetplane, which critiques the allure of celebrity culture.

Throughout the album, Sorry experiments with diverse musical elements, including strings, background noise, and intricate vocal textures. Tracks like Life In This Body showcase a quieter, more introspective side, featuring a nightmarish lullaby that encapsulates the album’s overarching themes of isolation and existential reflection.

The visual representation of COSPLAY is equally compelling. Lorenz, who directs the band’s music videos alongside childhood friend Flo Webb under the name FLASHA, emphasizes the importance of these visuals in expanding the album’s narrative. She notes that the videos serve as a platform to reinterpret cultural symbols, revealing the humor and darkness that lie beneath the surface.

A Darker Palette and Stronger Songwriting

Critics have praised COSPLAY for its innovative approach and stronger songwriting. The album retains the qualities that have garnered Sorry a dedicated fanbase while amplifying its impact through darker themes and more complex arrangements. From the minimalist piano in Magic to the captivating bassline in Love Posture, the record evokes a sense of intrigue and unease.

Describing the experience of listening to the album, one might liken it to confronting the unknown in a darkened room. The haunting atmosphere compels listeners to seek out the thrills hidden within its depths. As the band states, if they “died” during the creation of this album, the emerging sound promises to lead them further into the shadows.

As Sorry continues to push creative boundaries, COSPLAY stands as a testament to their artistic evolution. With its compelling narratives and experimental soundscapes, the album invites both old fans and new listeners to explore the multifaceted world that the band has crafted.