THE 1975 IN 2016

It made Billboard’s 100 Greatest Albums of the 2010s. NME gushed about a work that "brims with personality, ambition, and purpose," and awarded it four stars. It topped album charts in Australia, the UK, and the USA. No less than seven singles were lifted from its seventeen tracks, with an impressive four of them making the US Top 10. Welcome to the second album by The 1975, the generously titled I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware of It.

Clocking in at and ear-busting seventy-four minutes, you might think that this double album is too much of a good thing, but the sonic variety and sophisticated production make it a fascinating and engrossing trip. Incorporating elements of pop, R&B, funk, and 80s-inspired synth-pop, the band's ability to seamlessly blend genres to create a cohesive and dynamic listening experience is a mark of their confidence and skill. Yes, it is a huge and ambitious work, yet I Like It When You Sleep manages to stay coherent despite its eclecticism and duration. Several ambient interludes act as a kind of aural sorbet during this extended journey.

After an atmospheric (and brief) introduction, the album opens with lead single "Love Me." It’s a catchy track with a bold and glamorous sound, incorporating elements of 80s pop-rock and—you guessed it—glam rock. The song's energetic and flamboyant production, along with clever lyrics exploring themes of fame and celebrity culture, make it an instant earworm and a memorable opening statement for the album.

"The Sound" is upbeat and euphoric, blending pop sensibilities with the band's signature sound. It features an infectious melody, driving guitars, and a danceworthy rhythm. The lyrics touch upon themes of self-doubt and criticism, juxtaposing the catchy and upbeat music with a dose of introspection. With energy and a great hook, "The Sound" became a fan favourite.

"A Change of Heart" stands out for its stripped-down sound and reflective mood, showcasing the ability of The 1975 to create emotionally resonant ballads. The song features delicate piano melodies, heartfelt vocals, and lyrics that delve into themes of heartache and the complexities of relationships. Its simplicity and emotional depth add a note of real poignancy.

A question that arises with ambitious works such as this is whether it lives up to its own aspirations. This seems particularly relevant when you burden a record with a title of staggering self-indulgence. The neon installation on the back cover spells it out in glowing pink letters: I Like It When You Sleep, For You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware Of It. Though how anyone could sleep in a bedroom with that electricity guzzling hoarding is a complete mystery. Perhaps the long-winded title is tongue-in-cheek? Certainly there is some cheekiness in the lyrics, and humour too. "You look famous, let’s be friends" is a neat skewering of celebrity culture. In the end, however, it is the songs and the way they land for ordinary folk that counts. Is this an album you will want to play often and return to? Will it, in fact, become a friend?

The simple answer is "Yes".

© Bruce Jenkins — May 2023