Courtesy of sweetslyrics.com
A few years ago, a friend posted as his Facebook status, “Let’s dance to Joy Division and celebrate the irony; everything is going wrong but we’re so happy!” I was intrigued by the quote, and following a quick Google search, I ended up on the YouTube page for “Let’s Dance to Joy Division” by The Wombats. And I fell in love. I proceeded to listen to that song on repeat for the next month.
“Let’s Dance to Joy Division” is one of the more popular tracks on the British band’s debut album, “A Guide to Love, Loss & Desperation.” As the title suggests, the lyrics are dominated by tales of lost loves. The upbeat vocal fillers and fast-paced guitar and drum instrumentals are a far cry from the melancholy nature of the lyrics. I would classify the sound as alt-pop — a happy mix of indie rock and pop music — perfect for dancing.
On their newest album, “The Wombats Proudly Present This Modern Glitch,” the band has turned to a more techno sound. There is a prevalent use of a synth and keyboard in place of the guitar. The lyrics are deeper and definitely darker. Fast songs no longer dominate the track list.
Getting past the theme of heartbreak, many of the songs like “1996” and “Anti-D” seem to verge on social commentaries, calling attention to issues plaguing many of the individuals listening today.
Despite such morose themes, The Wombats are still one of the first bands I put on to get myself keyed up. Their music is absolutely infectious. As soon as I hear their songs, I nod my head, tap my feet or dance around my room. No matter what mood I’m in, when I listen to The Wombats, I can’t help but feel better. I can’t help but “celebrate the irony.”
Hansler is a member of the class of 2015.
