ALBUM REVIEW – COURTEENERS: PINK CACTUS CAFE

A new album by The Courteneers is always an exciting event on the indie music calendar and the band’s sixth studio album does not disappoint.

Released on 13 January 2023, ‘Pink Cactus Cafe’ is a diverse and compelling collection of songs that showcases the band’s strengths and sees them explore new territory.

The album opens with the title track, a catchy and upbeat number that sets the tone for the rest of the album. It’s followed by ‘Heart Attack’, a more introspective ballad that explores themes of love, loss and redemption.

The Courteneers have always been known for their knack for writing catchy and heartfelt songs but on ‘Pink Cactus Cafe’ they show that they are not afraid to experiment.

The album features a wide range of sounds and styles, from the synth-pop of ‘Modern Love’ to the psychedelic rock of ‘Hanging Off Your Cloud’.

Despite the diversity of the album, there is a sense of cohesion that runs throughout. The songs are all well-crafted and fit together seamlessly, creating a listening experience that is both enjoyable and satisfying.

One of the standout tracks on the album is ‘Summer of ’96’, a nostalgic and bittersweet ode to the band’s early days. The song is a reminder of how far the band has come and how much they have achieved.

Overall, ‘Pink Cactus Cafe’ is a strong and confident album from a band that is at the peak of their powers. The songs are catchy, heartfelt and well-crafted, and the album as a whole is a cohesive and enjoyable listening experience.

Highlights

• The album is diverse and compelling, with a wide range of sounds and styles.
• The songs are catchy, heartfelt and well-crafted.
• The album is a cohesive and enjoyable listening experience.

Lowlights

• The album may be a bit too long for some listeners.
• Some of the songs may not appeal to everyone.

Overall

‘Pink Cactus Cafe’ is a strong and confident album from a band that is at the peak of their powers. The songs are catchy, heartfelt and well-crafted, and the album as a whole is a cohesive and enjoyable listening experience.