It feels like it's been ages since Placebo dropped a new album, and let’s just say, it was definitely worth the wait. With their 8th studio album finally out, it’s clear that one thing remains true about Placebo: they are consistently good. Over their 30 years of making music, they've never really dipped in quality, and this album stands as solid proof of that. In fact, it may be one of their most experimental projects to date. They venture into new territory, playing around with synth-driven keys and even incorporating classical instruments like violins, all while maintaining the signature melancholic lyrics that have always been at the heart of their music.

Brian Molko’s vocals sound just as sharp and expressive as ever—healthy and full of the raw emotion we’ve come to expect. What stands out on this album is the increased use of backing vocals. They’ve added more layers than ever before, and these harmonies bring an extra layer of depth and flair to the tracks. As always, Brian’s guitar work is a mix of softness and intensity—his playing feels both ethereal and biting, from gentle strums to more polished rock riffs. It’s a perfect balance that stays true to their sound while still feeling fresh. The bass provides that classic deep, resonant feeling, always clean and in sync with the overall vibe. Percussion-wise, the drums hit all the right moments, driving the songs forward with precision and impact.

Lyrically, the album stays true to Placebo’s trademark somber tone, but at times, some of the lyrics feel a bit stale or less inspired. This isn’t unusual for Placebo—they’ve always been a bit hit or miss in terms of lyricism, with some lines really resonating while others don’t quite land. It’s just part of the gamble when it comes to their music. Lastly, some of the songs do feel a bit long, even by Placebo’s standards. This album is their longest to date, which makes sense considering it’s been almost 8 years since their last release. While there are moments of brilliance throughout, a few tracks could’ve benefitted from trimming the fat.

Overall, this album is a testament to Placebo’s staying power. They’re still experimenting, still evolving, and still delivering music that fans can count on. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their sound, it’s clear that Placebo has still got it.