Peel Dream Magazine - "Agitprop Alterna"

Words by Andrew Merclean

Curry on a rainy day. Spicy. Fragrant. Delicious. It’s a wonderful escape for when the world is feeling just a little blah. Funny enough, I feel the same way about Peel Dream Magazine’s new record. A stew of new and nostalgic ideas, this New York band’s sophomore record hits like no other.

Released by the excellent Slumberland Records, Agitprop Alterna feels like a defining statement. The winning sonic formula established on 2018’s Modern Meta Psychic has been fortified and expanded upon. Most notably, the atmosphere feels more collaborative this time around. Her first full-length with the band, vocalist Jo-Anne Hyun is a decisive addition to the sound. Hyun’s voice beautifully harmonizes with songwriter Joe Stevens’ low sung musings. Backed by hypnotic grooves and emotive chords, the songs quietly crush with revelatory magic.

This is especially evident on “NYC Illuminati,” the 13-song album’s heart. Feeling like the deepest part of the dream, it kind of makes time stop. No bullshit. Ancient drop-tuned chords grind away as Stevens and Hyun’s voices duel and melt into each other. An old organ chimes in the background, taking us all to church. But the sermon isn’t preachy. It’s just bliss. Just bliss

From the energetic opening of Pill to the fading light of ’Up and Up,’ the album is a journey. And a sweet one at that. Additionally, the timing of this record is especially interesting. Released on April 3rd, Agitprop Alterna has entered the airwaves in the midst of the global Covid-19 pandemic. As frustrating as this era is, I can’t help but see parallels between this album and our fragrant yet forbidden springtime. It’s gorgeous and distant at the same time. You can never get close enough to touch it, but it’s there and it’s magnificent.

Agitprop Alterna is a warm triumph.

Agitprop Alterna is out now via Slumberland Records in the states and Tough Love Records in Europe. You can purchase the record on limited edition purple vinyl via Bandcamp.

Peel Dream Magazine appeared on Look At My Records back in September of 2018. You can revisit the interview via Spotify.