Toronto collective project Broken Social Scene have finally returned from the shadows with their first record in over seven years, Hug Of Thunder, and in short, was more than worth the wait. The album was inspired following last year’s Paris shootings and stems from the minds of over 15 individual members who, through much chaotic musical deliberation, have arrived at a 12-piece record which is undoubtedly one of the most interesting and moving listens I’ve come across this year.

The most demanding vibe that surrounds Hug Of Thunder is its sheer diversity and unpredictability. Broken Social Scene have been able to create such a unique sound and easily capture aspects of hundreds of the world’s most influential musicians all whilst stressing creativity and originality. No two tracks on this record feel even remotely the same yet the band have somehow been able to brilliantly embed a distinct level of familiarity throughout, which truly opens up an all new aura of sonic engagement for the listener.

Even the opening few minutes of the album immediately demonstrate the sharp contrasts this album holds. ’Sol Luna’ starts the record with a minute of blissful atmospheric synth which emphasises all things dreamy and lures you in with promises of psychedelia, before being cut short by the harsh slashing of guitar strings in ‘Halfway Home’. The initial burst of energy jars the ear in a manner of respect that it makes you physically jump and, as the track begins to find its feet, a bizarre pacing is present which feels simultaneously relaxed in nature, yet demands some kind of movement or dancing. A fantastic start and reintroduction to this simply bizarre group.

Don’t get too comfortable however, as from here, the album only continues to grow in absurdity. Just as every track on this record does, ’Protest Song’ defies its predecessor’s sound and introduces us to the fronting vocals from Emily Haines who, in my personal opinion, holds the backbone of the entire record. The song is not only beautiful musically but holds a strong emotional message which the gentle vocal patterns in Emily’s voice bring out excellently. A counteracting lead guitar riff soon erupts and transforms the song into one which is definitely more suited to be played to a festival crowd. This number feels like a definite turning point on the record and for me is the perfect embodiment of just what Broken Social Scene stand for.

Vocal experimentation and cooperation is certainly a strong, reoccurring factor to the record, perhaps the best example being ‘Victim Lover’ where the torrent of different voices all work immensely well in bringing out one another’s strengths, bouncing blissfully off the jazz-like backing instrumentals. The track continues to demonstrate a harsh wooden bassline and dreamy guitar licks which blend idyllically to produce a single which holds an immense level of intrigue and desire to continue listening.

It may sound as though I have covered the majority of Broken Social Scene’s sound but, realistically, we’re only just getting started. The acoustic ballad stylings of ‘Skyline’ do not fall any shorter than the softer numbers already mentioned, neither does the incredibly synth-heavy ‘Stay Happy’ feel misplaced or unwelcome. It is clear that this band thrive on the diversity they have presented, and with all 15 original members being present on the record, it is amazing that they have been able to create such a well organised piece! No single member steals the limelight and it certainly feels like each instrument is doing its own bit to help work towards producing a listen which satisfies audiences entirely.

Broken Social Scene have made a colossal comeback into the public domain with Hug Of Thunder and this record more than has the capability to fulfil almost any musical desire. Not a single track feels out of place and each truly does add its own colour to the album’s holistic vision. This album stresses the importance of teamwork and demonstrates it at its very finest, making for a well thought out luxury listen from cover to cover. For those who have never heard of Broken Social Scene, now is the opportune time to jump on board, and I'm sure you’ll not regret it!
Ben Walker

Website: brokensocialscene.ca
Facebook: facebook.com/brokensocialscene
Twitter: twitter.com/bssmusic