A brief inquiry into The 1975’s latest album

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The English band released their third album, filled with content reflecting on social media in our generation Photo courtesy of The 1975.

A  lot has happened in the two years since The 1975 released their second album “I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it,” in 2016. Not just in the world, but in frontman Matt Healy’s hectic life in the spotlight.

From politics and controversial celebrities such as Kanye West to Healy’s own battle with heroin addiction, the band examines our social media-ridden modern society in their latest album, “A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships.”

The 1975 has always had a distinct sound that sets them apart from others. In all honesty, there are no bands quite like them, because they have created their own lane in the music industry. Their music, which can only be described as a unique blend of alternative and pop, makes them hard to replicate.

Musically, they stayed true to their sometimes unpredictable sound that consists of many overlapping synths, subtle snares and unique guitar riffs with occasional stripped down acoustic ballads. This is present in songs such as “Be My Mistake,” in which Healey reflects on the feeling of guilt.

However, when you listen closely behind the precise and amazing production, there is meaning in Healy’s lyrics that one would not expect from a self-proc laimed pop band.

In the lead single “Love It If We Made It,” Healy compiles references to the most controversial moments that have clouded our everyday lives, from President Donald Trump’s tweets to lyrics like “A beach of drowning three-year olds,” which sheds light on the devastating images we have seen of Syrian refugees the past two years.

In the chorus, Healy repeats the title of the song in a desperate cry to fix the negative effects that modern society has had on us.

Through “Sincerity Is Scary,” Healy challenges the modern reluctance to emotional self expression over a jazz filled instrumental.

The upbeat production contrasts with the lyrical content is no mistake, and is symbolic of our tendency as humans to only give attention to viral moments for a split second and then move on.

Healy is critiquing a society that he plays an active role in, as we all do, and he acknowledges this. The album is more than just love in the digital age but also about life in the digital age.

The reflective process that Healy showcases in his music is what makes people want to listen. We all become stuck at one point or another questioning our own actions, and this album provides hopeful, optimistic tracks that give a sense of freedom from the overwhelming influx of information that comes with constant exposure to media.

Despite all the societal critiques in the album, tracks such as “Tootimetootimetootime” and “Give Yourself A Try” are the dance tracks we all need. They offer uplifting messages as well as relaxing production that makes it hard not to fall in love with the songs immediately.

The versatility of The 1975 will only propel them to receiving the recognition they deserve. They don’t just make pop songs. They create songs with substance. The artistry that the band has been able to exhibit through “A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships” is what will lead to their success and, in my opinion, future title as one of the best bands of our generation.

Matt Healy summed up the intentions, message and true sound of the album in an interview with Beats 1 radio.

“I like the all-encompassing aspect of life. You can have these bits, the sad bits,” Healy said. “But don’t leave the dancing out.”