At over 60 years of age—approaching 70—the Pet Shop Boys continue to produce elegant, polished, and classic pop-dance music, staying true to the legacy they began precisely 40 years ago. Rather than winding down with thoughts of retirement or resting on their laurels, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe defy the effects of time and age, making a strong comeback with an outstanding new album. For their long-standing fans, they’ve also prepared a special surprise.. who isn’t a fan, really?
- Buy Pet Shop Boys new vinyl album Nonetheless on Amazon
Forty years since the release of their groundbreaking debut, “Please,” and over three decades after revolutionizing the dance music landscape with “West End Girls,” the Pet Shop Boys continue to sculpt the synth-pop domain with their latest album, “Nonetheless.” With a career rich in evocative storytelling and sonic innovation, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe have not only maintained their relevance but have expanded upon it with each subsequent release.
Musical Evolution and Production
The production of “Nonetheless,” helmed by James Ford, who is acclaimed for his nuanced approach to indie and electronic music, seamlessly blends traditional Pet Shop Boys synth lines with lush orchestral elements, perhaps a nod to the rich textures found in their 1990 album, “Behaviour.” The album’s sound is both a homage to and an evolution of the duo’s earlier works, bearing the sophisticated dance rhythms of “Very” (1993) and the reflective tone of “Elysium” (2012).
Tracks like “Mirror of Time” echo the wistful yet danceable essence of “Being Boring” while introducing a more layered, complex orchestral backing that enriches the auditory palette. “The Sirens Call” is reminiscent of the vibrant, upbeat tracks from “Electric” (2013), yet it’s imbued with deeper lyrical introspection that speaks to the wisdom of their years.
Lyricism and Themes
Tennant’s lyricism in “Nonetheless” has matured into a poignant exploration of themes such as the relentless passage of time, love’s complexities, and the search for meaning—themes that have peppered much of their discography but are handled here with a new level of finesse. “Windswept Bridges” and “Last to Know” serve as emotional high points of the album, showcasing Tennant’s ability to weave narratives that are both personal and universally resonant.
Standout Tracks and Historical Echoes
“Forever Now” immediately stands out with its infectious energy that harks back to the vitality of “Go West.” It’s a track that exemplifies how the Pet Shop Boys have continuously managed to reinvent the wheel—keeping their sound fresh yet unmistakably theirs. Meanwhile, “Architect of Love” mirrors the experimental edge of their 2002 release “Release,” combining unconventional soundscapes with introspective lyrics.
Critical Reception and Reflections on Legacy
Critics and fans have praised “Nonetheless” for its eloquent synthesis of the old and the new. The album is seen as a testament to the duo’s enduring influence and innovation in the music industry. It not only revisits the past but also pushes forward, redefining what modern synth-pop can sound like.
With “Nonetheless,” the Pet Shop Boys continue to celebrate and expand their musical legacy. The album is a profound statement on growth, innovation, and the enduring power of well-crafted pop music. It encapsulates the essence of their journey while firmly stepping forward into new realms of musical exploration. For anyone who has followed their illustrious career, “Nonetheless” offers a deep, enriching experience that confirms the duo’s status not just as survivors of the changing music landscape but as its perennial innovators.