Album review: Wednesday - Bleeds

Karly Hartzman's vocals personify anxiety. It melodically reels you in before exploding, the narrative justifying the reaction. But instead of a loud-quiet rehash, Wednesday's latest album Bleeds is a graduation for the North Carolina group.

Building off cult success, the anticipation for a new Wednesday album has never been more apparent. But instead of bowing to pressure, the band double down. Opening track Reality TV Argument Bleeds is a microcosm, a statement of intent. In a matter of minutes, we know what Wednesday are about and how they are going to accomplish it.

Contextually, the circumstances of the recording of the album were predicated upon change - the end of Hartzman and MJ Lenderman's relationship, which was kept from the rest of the band, make some of the themes more poignant. Listeners can choose to highlight, scrutinise and read into the lyrics if they wish.

Although it uses old techniques, Wednesday's Bleeds sounds remarkably fresh. Its noise is still controlled and melodic, and it knits together its two styles with ease. From quieter moments that recall Dear Nora (The Way Loves Goes) to sub-90-second fits of rage (Wasp), it all fits in Bleeds. Cathartically captivating.

Wednesday now find themselves in a new place, having grafted to establish themselves on their own terms. Expect bigger shows and a growing fanbase. But crucially, they have not compromised but developed their talents.

Bleeds is out on Dead Oceans.