Rather than the rip-roaring, breakneck speed of the band’s earlier work, here songs are allowed to breathe and build more, taking surprising twists and turns is a highly satisfying way.
The album is almost too neat, given Protomartyr’s newfound use of saxophone, self-conscious touches like the chirping crickets at the beginning and end of a few tracks, and the seamless sequencing of songs. But the restless punk spirit and flippant, downtrodden ethos that prevail over the project render Protomartyr’s painstaking intellectualizations as fuel for a visceral winding up and release of discontent.
Though they’ve yet to release a subpar record, the sarcastically titled Ultimate Success Today laser-focuses both their song writing and sound into what may be their defining statement to date, especially apposite for these grim times.
Fortunately, there is some respite with “June 21” and “The Aphorist,” both of which allow the raucous proceedings to take a brief pause. Yet even there the turgid trappings aren’t entirely abandoned. There’s a clear sense of foreboding imbued in each of these offerings and the darkness and doom continue to linger throughout.
Fantastic album which captures well typical Protomartyr sound yet in a very different way, more elaborate almost experimental at times withFantastic album which captures well typical Protomartyr sound yet in a very different way, more elaborate almost experimental at times with excellent production and ingenious use of additional instruments such as saxophone or clarinet. The greatly written literary lyrics match perfectly the moods conveyed through the music. All songs are simultaneously original on their own but also form a whole such as a concept album thanks to excellent transitions and well ordered tracks in the list. If that’s a swan album from the band then it’s a winner and certainly a serious contender for aoty.…Expand
Protomartyr are the most consistently excellent band since The Smiths. Every album is a little better, more complex and, frankly, depressing.Protomartyr are the most consistently excellent band since The Smiths. Every album is a little better, more complex and, frankly, depressing. This latest one is uncomfortably real. As I belive Iggy Pop said recently, they are the best band we have in America today.…Expand
I have issues with perfection I guess? Maybe I thought a 9 might sound more reasonable to someone who has yet to hear much of Protomartyr.I have issues with perfection I guess? Maybe I thought a 9 might sound more reasonable to someone who has yet to hear much of Protomartyr. These days it's a blessing to find an album with no "weak tracks" or "filler." I love Nine Inch Nails and Three Six Mafia. Fiona Apple and Peaches. El-P and Mø. Are those supposed to be dichotomies? I don't think so? I'm not as smart as Joe and friends. I wear a mask. I prefer The Fragile; maybe even The Agent Intellect. No one needs my help appreciating how uniquely awesome each song is structured. Those who try to decipher meaning (obvious to impossible depending on the faculties at hand) will likely arm their vocab munitions. I wish I enjoyed marijuana. I think people who do would really enjoy Protomartyr whilst engaging in marijuana consumption. Stupid? girl, you know it's true. Yeah, that's some random rants from a guy who doesn't have a scene and would never say **** your scene. Do as you will. Fontaines DC had a great debut album. It's not The Fragile, but we aren't all suddenly in our mid-30s. **** off. I knew Bowie and Rakim when I was yet a teenager. Go listen to The Fragile. Then buy yourself a Protomartyr hoodie and listen to ULTIMATE SUCCESS TODAY frequently! (reminds me of Tappy from Requiem for a Dream......random thought....seems to be a theme). Another theme = Protomartyr making albums I can't find a flaw with. Probably shouldn't have mentioned Fiona due to the praise she's received this year. Insert.....Subtle? E-40? Queens of the Stone Age? ABBA? Aphex Twin instead of Fiona. My angelic cold hearted guide through puberty (Fiona as depicted by Mark Romanek) has received enough love. Thanks. Hockey's back!…Expand
Strangely under-hyped prior to its release. Another gem from the best band in the world today. You’ve likely read plenty about the additionsStrangely under-hyped prior to its release. Another gem from the best band in the world today. You’ve likely read plenty about the additions of Kelley Deal and woodwind instruments, and yep, all those new elements are there. Lovely at times, familiar pulsating drums and riffs as always, and the lyrics are A+ as always. Worth the purchase for the incredible artwork and handmade lyrics zine alone. Hope these fellas get to tour this album eventually cos they deserve your money.…Expand
I thoroughly enjoyed this album. It has a fantastically brooding intensity which never really lets up. It's a record filled withI thoroughly enjoyed this album. It has a fantastically brooding intensity which never really lets up. It's a record filled with existentialism, fury and darkness. The musicianship, especially the drums and guitars, is constantly excellent. By no means is it perfect, but I certainly would recommend it to lovers of experimental rock and post-punk.…Expand
