CD of The Week

Sorry - 925 (Domino)

Founded by lifelong friends Asha Lorenz and Louis O'Bryan, UK band Sorry got their start by releasing a handful of mixtapes and one-off singles in recent years. However, the new album 925 is their first proper release, though it collects many of those earlier tracks. The band's mix of British cool, snide aloofness and moody rock combine for one of the most intriguing debut records of 2020.

You've probably heard their single "Right Round the Clock" here on Y-Not Radio. Over brooding saxophones, the memorable track is a boy-pines-for-girl tale with a clever lyrical flip of Tears for Fears' "Mad World" in the middle.

Throughout 925, the vocals of Lorenz and O'Bryan often intertwine, creating a sulky/sultry effect. Their dual vocals are reminiscent of The Kills, but without the aggression of Alison Mosshart. The electro-production tricks on "Starstruck" are reminiscent of Garbage, but the song's notable moment comes when it's punctuated by a "euughh!" from Lorenz.

The skronking saxophones are back on "Rock 'n' Roll Star," a tale of spending the night with "a washed-up rock 'n' roll star." The trippy, sexy "Snakes" was one of the earlier tracks released by the band and actually samples dialogue from Kaa the python in The Jungle Book (get it?). Other highlights include the alt-rock guitar dynamics of their latest single "Perfect," the languid post-breakup song "As the Sun Sets," which quotes "What a Wonderful World," and the sweet, sing-songy "Heather."

Sorry could have easily fit into the mid-'90s post-Britpop scene alongside Elastica and other NME cover stars. While 925 feels like it goes on a bit too long by staying primarily in the same atmosphere, Sorry's unique vibe helps them stick out from the pack. Lorenz, O'Bryan and co have staked out a truly different place in the indie world today – no apologies necessary.
Review by Joey O.