Suede’s Latest Album: A Blend of Artistry and Rock Music
Suede, the iconic Britpop band known for their distinctive sound, is back with a brand new album titled “Antidepressants”. In a recent interview with MOJO, Suede shared insights into the making of their tenth album, slated for release on September 5th via BMG.
Following the success of their previous album, “Autofiction”, which was praised for its raw energy and emotional depth reminiscent of their early years, “Antidepressants” takes a different musical direction. Frontman Brett Anderson describes it as their “post-punk” offering, drawing inspiration from influential bands like Pil, Siouxsie And The Banshees, Joy Division, Magazine, and The Cure. This return to their musical roots echoes their beginnings in Haywards Heath, where Anderson and bassist Mat Osman first connected over a shared love of cult music.
According to Osman, “Antidepressants” taps into the music of their adolescence, featuring Richard Oakes as the primary songwriter. Oakes, who joined the band at a young age, replaced Bernard Butler and navigated the challenges of establishing his musical identity within Suede. Anderson praises Oakes as an underrated guitarist and appreciates his unique contributions to the band’s evolving sound.
Reflecting on the thematic elements of “Antidepressants”, Anderson explains that the album explores themes of paranoia and defiance in a world that feels simultaneously oppressive and liberating. Tracks like “Disintegrate”, “Sweet Kid”, and “Dancing With The Europeans” showcase Suede’s diverse musical palette, while “Broken Music For Broken People” encapsulates a spirit of resilience and rebellion.
Interestingly, Suede initially considered creating a ballet soundtrack as the follow-up to “Autofiction” during the Covid-induced break. However, the overwhelming response to their previous album led them back to their rock roots, resulting in the evolution of “Antidepressants”. The album features reimagined pieces from the abandoned ballet project, weaving together a cohesive musical narrative that captures the essence of Suede’s artistry.
Reflecting on their distinctive sound and unconventional approach to music, Anderson emphasizes Suede’s ability to experiment while staying true to their rock roots. As a band that has always divided opinions, Suede continues to push boundaries and challenge expectations with their latest release.
As Suede prepares to unleash their tenth album upon the world, fans can anticipate a compelling musical journey that merges past influences with present creativity. With “Antidepressants”, Suede reaffirms their status as innovators in the rock landscape, demonstrating a nuanced blend of nostalgia and innovation that sets them apart from their peers.