Review: Tegan and Sara, Heartthrob

The 80s are making a bit of a comeback, it seems. While they might not be the first to do it in the past few years, Tegan and Sara's newest release Heartthrob showcases some distinct disco-rock flavors, and it works for them. The duo has never been one to stick to what works, nor what is socially acceptable, but Heartthrob focuses on the dance element, and these two ladies have it down pretty well. For their seventh album, there's more electronic elements than ever before, but the Quin sisters have used it to their advantage.

The lead single "Closer" has a fast backing beat, featuring the melodies of both sisters, creating a Pat Benatar type flavor right off the bat. "Goodbye, Goodbye" is similar, albeit a little more stripped down from the reverb. But then a gem hits. "I Was A Fool" is another single but stripped to its essentials, with delicate piano and the girls' vocals layered intricately over the synth pop sounds. It's a beautiful pop ballad that has true heart behind it; the art of turning a hurtful breakup into this lovely tune is something Tegan and Sara have perfected. "Love They Say" features harmonies and scattered vocals on both girls' parts, while "Now I'm All Messed Up" has some of the most reaching vocals on the whole album. And it works.

Tegan and Sara are from Canada, and are identical twin sisters.

While the album does indeed translate the concept for it, the songs are all able to be differentiated. Each track has its place, and while it's a cohesive album, each song is a piece that fits. They all come in bite-size shapes as well, with only two tracks clocking in at over four minutes. "Drove Me Wild" is a definite anthem for both the groups fans and their live shows, and isn't as 80s-tinged as the rest of the album. It's very 2013, but stays away from falling into the trap of becoming EDM or dubstep. I don't see T&S fans digging a dubstep flavor from the girls, do you?

Heartthrob is full of ballads and break up tunes, but T&S is a group that you can't get sick of writing songs like that. It's almost like we wait to hear more stories to relate to, which is the whole point of Heartthrob. There's plenty for fans here in that vein (take "How Come You Don't Want Me" for example). "I Couldn't Be Your Friend" is another example; how many of us can't be friends with someone we've loved? T&S hits us right in the heart. And as a fan (particularly of Heartthrob), I'm loving every minute.