You can see why Model/Actriz’s inaugural album, “Dogsbody,” released in 2023, has received widespread praise. In a time when rock often leans towards the conventional—where innovation frequently means reinterpreting familiar sounds from yesteryears wiht a contemporary flair—this band emerges as refreshingly distinct.

A Unique Soundscape

The album thrives on dynamic contrasts, highlighting the band’s skill in merging chaos with meticulousness; it pairs gentle melodies with an intense sonic backdrop that drives each song forward.

Haden’s vocal style is both personal and subtle, even as he explores falsetto ranges, intertwining emotional resonance with whimsical flamboyance in lines like “I’m such a fucking diva; you don’t even know,” from “Diva.” He paints a vivid picture of himself “soaked head to toe in designer attire.”

Occasionally, the album takes unexpected turns; tracks such as “acid Rain” and the closing piece “Baton” radiate straightforward charm while preserving their avant-garde spirit through complex guitar riffs that flirt with abstraction before regaining clarity.

A Captivating Experience

no matter their approach—whether they are exploring contrasting elements or striving for a more unified sound—Model/Actriz consistently captivates listeners.

You may find it difficult to pigeonhole their sound within mainstream pop when confronted by something as intense as “Ring Toll Road,” yet it’s undeniably more approachable than its predecessor, which demanded listeners brace themselves for its overwhelming intensity.

This Week’s Listening Picks by Alexis

Sault – ILTS
Sault’s twelfth studio release arrived unexpectedly two weeks ago, featuring tracks enriched with lush horn arrangements that create an irresistible rhythm—a highlight among its ten offerings.