Glasgow’s Dancer returns with their sophomore full-length album, ‘More Or Less’ via Spanish imprint Meritorio Records. This collection is a study in purposeful contradiction, brilliantly encapsulated by its title—a late-stage adjustment reflecting the dichotomy that everything is the same but different. The band, now bolstered by the dynamic addition of drummer Luke Moran (Buffet Lunch), has executed a successful and sophisticated evolution of their signature sound.
‘More Or Less’ operates on a heightened sonic spectrum, simultaneously pushing the band into more sophisticated, art-rock realms while retaining their raw, scuzzy, and party-ready punk edge. The album, recorded at Chime Studios in Glasgow with engineer Ross McGowan against a winter backdrop of personal and political turmoil, serves as a visceral act of defiance in the face of grueling realities such as bereavement and illness.
The record is a deluge of rip-roaring compositions that rarely allow for respite, yet it is bookended by the more contemplative behaviors of “Legend” and “Calm Down,” providing necessary anchors to the kinetic energy within. At the album’s towering center is “Getting It Wrong Every Time,” arguably the most epic Dancer track to date. Its graceful ebb and flow showcase a new level of compositional maturity and an exploration of texture. Lead single “Happy Halloween” captures this dynamic in full flight, combining a raw, infectious buoyancy with undeniable catchiness that ranks them among the band’s most engaging output.
Image courtesy of Meritorio Records
At the heart of Dancer’s unique appeal is Gemma Fleet’s compelling vocal delivery. Charged with a potent wit and palpable character, her narratives weave through the instrumentals with a considered, speak-singing stream of consciousness, recalling the spirit of Life Without Buildings and the gentle cynicism of early riot grrrl discernment.
Instrumentally, the band is a contained explosion. Chris Taylor’s guitar work reaches truly imaginative peaks, demonstrating an explorative artistry that slices and morphs in a manner reminiscent of Sonic Youth, further amplified by his inventive, self-designed keyboard-guitar contraption. The rejuvenated rhythm section, featuring bassist Andrew Doig alongside Moran, provides the essential containment and a bouncing, almost *B-52’s*-esque groove that electrifies the lo-fi art-rock foundation, particularly on the other lead single “Just Say Yes.”
‘More Or Less’ is a compelling synthesis of post-punk, art-rock, and lo-fi aesthetics, successfully polishing the band’s sound while retaining their scrappy, tongue-in-cheek nature. The result is a vibrant, immediate, and catchy collection that hearkens back to the best of the ’80s post-punk/new wave moment, drawing favorable comparisons to acts like Elastica, Pylon, and Owls.
Having shared stages with contemporary heavyweights such as Dry Cleaning and Sweeping Promises, Dancer is poised for a significant breakthrough. ‘More Or Less’ is not just an album; it’s a testament to the band’s ability to turn chaos into cohesive, intellectually engaging rock.
Please visit the Dancer’s Bandcamp or Meritorio Records to have a listen or to purchase.
