Tragically True is a consuming new album from NYC-based artist villafeign, moving seamlessly between driving, high-energy rock and moments of reflective intensity. Propulsive guitars, pulsing basslines, and layered synths underpin vocals that shift between urgency and introspection, giving the album a constantly evolving energy. Beneath its sonic momentum lies a narrative of personal reckoning, exploring how we navigate disappointment, self-sabotage, and the sometimes hollow strategies we adopt to get through life.
“Seeing is Deceiving” opens the album with heartfelt captivation, infusing jangly guitar warmness and subdued synths amidst a compelling vocal introspection. “Sometimes seeing can be deceiving, when there’s nothing else to believe in,” they let out as the steady guitars and buzzy keys intertwine. The lyricism stirs in its perspectives on disillusionment, showing how pride and perception can blind us to reality until the fall makes the truth unavoidable. Tragically True consistently enamors in its quality songcraft, and commences with a series of tracks that show tonal variety while all sharing a knack for emotional lyrical heart.
Following a tender, approachably relatable opening to the album in “Seeing is Deceiving,” a brisker rock infectiousness takes hold on “Hostile Heart.” “Maybe I got it all wrong, never end up quite where I belong,” the hooky vocals lament there, enveloping alongside pulsing guitars and bouncy bass, conjuring a post-punk and rock cohesion fondly reminiscent of early Interpol. The ensuing “Retroperspective” is another gem, pondering personal evolution following pivotal decision-making. “Am I stronger than before, after walking out that door?” the vocals compel, diversifying well between the conversational feeling of the verses and anthemic vigor within the chorus, unveiling a title-touting hookiness.
“So take those regrets, toss ’em all in a bin,” the vocals implore on “The Stranger,” feeling like a natural response to “Retroperspective” and its striving to move on from past baggage. “Don’t be such a stranger, you’ll live a life filled with so much anger,” the insightful allure continues, excelling amidst frolicking piano, acoustic strums, and twangy guitar complements — strutting a delightful folk, country, and singer-songwriter fusion. Another standout comes via “Ondulante,” reminding fondly of Os Mutantes in its playful psych-rock colorfulness. “Cellophane Games” also succeeds in its dazed vocal elements and “wrapped up in all of your ways” smitten ardor, as does album finale “New Realitease,” furthering themes of being stuck in the past, here within a contagious rock beckoning to “take a ride and get lost in the tide.” With Tragically True, villafeign stakes a compelling debut, one that lingers with quiet urgency and thoughtful depth.
