Liverpool-based punk provocateurs, Courting, take an audacious leap into pop territory with their second album, "New Last Name." The quartet, known for their disdain of pop stardom in the past, now proudly embraces the title, delivering a collection of saccharine anthems that blur the lines between punk sneers and pop cheers.
In a bold departure from their hyperpop-influenced debut, "Guitar Music," Courting's "New Last Name" signifies a musical evolution that sees them shedding the eccentricities in favor of anthemic pop. Lead single "Flex" reveals a more approachable side, as vocalist Sean Murphy O'Neill boasts about newfound pop stardom and a penchant for smoking.
While maintaining some quirks, like O'Neill's autotuned vocals brushing against the guitar-oriented instrumentation, Courting's sonic landscape has broadened. The album's singles, including "Throw," "Flex," and "Emily G," channel the populist vibes of The Killers and 2000s Arctic Monkeys, departing from the punkish sneer of their earlier work.
"New Last Name" presents a paradoxical persona through O'Neill's lyrics, alternating between self-consciousness and ego, humor and pouting. The album's character is shaped by his audacious and conversational approach, delivering sardonic and witty commentary on modern life, pop culture, and online experiences.
While some may draw parallels with The 1975, Courting distinguishes themselves through their malleability, akin to playing dress-up in various musical genres while retaining their identity. Collaborations like "We Look Good Together (Big Words)" with DJ Sabrina the Teenage DJ showcase the band's potential as pop icons, while tracks like "The Hills" and "Happy Endings" exude personality and color.
"New Last Name" is not a complete departure but a transformation, reminiscent of Courting's penchant for cosplay. The band's ability to shift from post-Brexit post-punk to Britpop or American pop-punk demonstrates their capacity for reinvention, not just within songs but across albums.
While the comparison with The 1975 may persist, Courting's unique flair and playful experimentation set them apart. The album, with its infectious pop moments, still pays homage to their punk roots, creating a distinctive and memorable listening experience. "New Last Name" may signal a departure from the hyperpop influences of their debut, but it's a testament to Courting's shapeshifting abilities and their refusal to be pigeonholed.