Having emerged as one of post-hardcore’s most consistent bands over the past decade or so, the return of Touché Amoré comes with a hint of anticipation. Their discography is littered with frontman Jeremy Bolm’s multifaceted narrative, leaning into life experiences, and giving his, and others’, reflective perspectives. This has allowed the Los Angeles band to become dynamic while never sacrificing their rawness. Album number six, ‘Spiral In A Straight Line’, considerably maintains this trend while pushing their versatility.
At its core, and as its title somewhat suggests, is a narrative that life isn’t straightforward, and hits you with unpredictability. Bolm, along with guitarists Clayton Stevens and Nick Steinhardt, bassist Tyler Kirby and drummer Elliot Babin, put the lens on a loop of anxiety. From the moment ‘Nobody’s’ begins, Bolm is questioning his purpose and his band’s adversity; “Is it enough? To call it off ?” It’s an idea he revisits on the penultimate track, ‘The Glue’. Here he admits to struggling to “see it through” despite doing all that he can. Whereas ‘Hal Ashby’ contains one of ‘Spiral…’s strongest choruses as Bolm ruminates on being misunderstood and aims to “recalibrate”. It is the constant poetic self-analysis that makes Touché Amoré stand out amongst their peers.
For all of his lyrical strength, Bolm is backed by a reliable group that continues to tighten their sound sonically and well-paced execution. ‘Force of Habit’ allows Kirby’s plodding bass line underneath Stevens and Steinhardt’s appetising and ringing guitars. Whereas ‘This Routine’s atmospheric drive complements Bolm’s agonising words of growing distance. ‘Subversion (Brand New Love)’ pulls in the pace, with assistance from Dinosaur Jr and Sebadoh’s Lou Barlow. It also allows Babin’s pounding drum work to shine alongside Stevens and Steinhardt’s jangly and considered guitars. Regular collaborator Julien Baker returns to make it a hat-trick of appearances. The Grammy winner lends her vocals to interweave on album closer, ‘Goodbye For Now’. Serving as a harmonious foil to Bolm’s aggressive voice with her acrobatic and cathartic flair.
Although there’s musical depth to Touché Amoré, there’s a constant punk-like texture. Whether that be on the explosive ‘Disasters’, penetrative ‘Mezzanine’, or ‘Finalist’s kinetic execution show. It merely adds to the quintet’s adaptability, all the while leaning into their capabilities as a wired, intense and solid collective.
The combination of Bolm’s passionate, mentally weathered, and relatable songwriting, and a robust musical unit makes for a collection of anthemic and stirring songs. This results in another addictive and refined Touché Amoré album.
