For those who may not be aware, The 1975 are alternative band from England consisting of four members: Matthew Healy (vocals and guitar), George Daniel (drums), Adam Hann (guitar) and Ross MacDonald (bass).  The Manchester band’s newest album, I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware of It, far surpassed expectations for the band. Because of their last self-titled album’s haunting and depressive sound, one might expect for them to follow a similar path. But when the first single, “Love Me,” dropped, it was anything but that. The song pays homage to David Bowie’s song “Fame” with its feel-good and slightly halogenic melody. This track also ‘slams’ popular culture and how materialistic it plays out to be.  The entire album revolves around a struggle with trying to fit into modern society and breaking the mold people have set for them.

“We don’t sound like any other band from Manchester, ever, and that’s what being a Manchester band is,” said Healy in an interview. It does so by touching on the lead singer’s battle with religion, drugs and the fame the band has acquired.

This album also aims at making you listen to the lyrics and take them for more than just face value.  Healy’s masterful writing leaves you wanting more. There is a track on the album for everyone. Love nonsense pop music? Take a listen To “ Ugh!” or “The Sound.” Looking for something a little more heart wrenching and Bon Iver-esque, give “Nana” or “If I Believe You” a try. Already love The 1975? Well then how about you go ahead and listen to The 1975 or Lostmyhead because they take the band’s old songs and put a slight twist on them. Don’t take my word for it; go listen to it for yourself!