Car Seat Headrest’s comeback rock opera ‘The Scholars’ shines on
The latest release from Car Seat Headrest, entitled “The Scholars,” showcases the band’s return to their rock-opera roots with a newfound collaborative spirit. After facing setbacks due to frontman Will Toledo contracting long COVID following their 2020 album “Making a Door Less Open,” the band made a triumphant comeback with this latest offering.
Unlike their previous albums where Toledo took the reins in terms of songwriting and performance, “The Scholars” sees a more democratic approach with all band members receiving writing credits for the material. The album kicks off with a departure from the electronic sound of their previous album, opting for a fuller, more energetic sound. The band’s signature nervous howl is complemented by punchy drums and soaring guitar riffs, creating a dynamic and compelling listening experience.
One highlight of the album is the track “CCF (I’m Gonna Stay with You),” which starts off slow and builds to a climactic peak. Toledo’s poignant lyrics about a blind coyote and leaving darkness mirror his own personal struggles and subsequent recovery. The album delves into a sprawling concept, following the story of a medical student named Rosa who can heal patients by absorbing their pain, drawing inspiration from rock opera legends like The Who and David Bowie.
While “The Scholars” may lack the cohesive narrative of some of Car Seat Headrest’s previous work, it compensates with intricate songcraft and deep lyricism. The lengthy tracks on the album may require listeners to delve into the songwriter’s references and themes for a full understanding of the material, but the effort is well worth it.
Tracks like “Gethsemane” stand out as musical epics that showcase the band’s ability to craft lengthy, multi-part compositions. While some songs may stretch to over 18 minutes in length, the artistry and dedication to their craft is evident throughout the album. Despite not always achieving all its ambitious goals, “The Scholars” is ultimately a success for Car Seat Headrest and a promising indication of their future endeavors.
In conclusion, Car Seat Headrest’s latest offering “The Scholars” is a testament to the band’s resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. With its grandiose scope, complex narrative, and intricate songwriting, this album solidifies the band’s reputation as indie rock icons and leaves listeners eagerly anticipating what they have in store next.