Viagra Boys

The Swedish post-punk band Viagra Boys are like the smart-asses that made you laugh back in high school. They’re loud and they’re frequently obnoxious, but you also suspect they’re a lot cleverer than those who take quick offence at their antics. They’re taking the mickey, that’s your best guess, and they may yet grow up to hold elected office and lead us all not into temptation.

Their new album, Welfare Jazz (it’s their second, coming after 2019’s impressive, but less focused, Street Worms), has nothing much to do with jazz, except for the persistent, desperate saxophone and the piano like something lifted from the Westworld saloon. Instead it’s a stupidly creative, often very funny collection that somehow hews closest to both QOTSA and Plowing Into The Field era Iceage. I came in wanting to dislike this band just because of their name (but then music history is littered with dumb handles). I wanted to find them somehow below serious consideration (because I’m special). But now I just want them to like me.

Creatures is a synth-pop song that betters its inspirations, and is best listened to with your eyes closed. The video (here it is) is completely at odds with the lyrics.

I Feel Alive is much more typical, from a band that spits in typical’s face (have a watch).