Late 20s Weirdness: Remember Sports Finds Wisdom

The indie-punk band Remember Sports has released 'The Refrigerator,' an album exploring the peculiar phase of one's late 20s. Frontperson Carmen Perry describes it as a 'Saturn return record,' signifying a transition from adolescence into adulthood. This release marks a shift from their earlier energetic sound to more subdued, sentimental, and reflective themes.

Recorded at Steve Albini's Electrical Audio studios shortly after his 2024 passing, 'The Refrigerator' still features elements of the band's punk roots on tracks like "Thumb" and "Bug." However, a significant departure involves the band's embrace of softer musical palettes and slower tempos. Perry's vocals showcase self-assurance in these gentler modes, drawing comparisons to Americana and country-pop artists.

Lyrically, the album balances modern romance with timeless yearning. It touches on the passage of time, with subtle references to changing seasons and fleeting summer days. The band's willingness to experiment with sounds like bagpipes and strings, coupled with melodies that linger and grow, creates a rich listening experience, culminating in tracks that blend power pop with a sense of enduring emotion.