Chicago-based collective Anomaly Report pairs cinematic alt-rock creativity and caustic observations of modern life on their new album, Beautiful Terrible Things. Known for their self-described “brutalist neo-Soviet insomnia rock,” the veteran group spans from the brass-tinged noise of its opening tracks to a boozy, burlesque-style finale across this gripping full-length. Using sardonic wit, the project highlights technological hubris and societal decay, finding vital humor within the world’s wreckage.
The project’s knack for enjoyably surreal rock atmospherics is evident right away with “There’s a Snake in the Barn,” a dynamic tour-de-force of an opener. A debonair, foreboding title-touting proclamation opens amidst bouncy bass, twangy guitars, and twinkling piano, venturing into brassy adornments with carnival-esque appeal. Artful depictions of societal rot coexist with a memorable art-rock intrigue. An ominous entrancement continues on “Wicked,” a darkly theatrical stunner with blares of grimy electric guitars and “I’m wicked” vocal outpourings. Lyrical references to nocturnal debauchery and the looming imminence of daylight bring forth vampirism metaphors, its themes of transformation fitting aptly within the venomous rock aesthetic.
An array of narratives, from cinematic-ready vampirism to contemplations on technological hubris, compels throughout the album. The latter is achieved on “Daedalus’ Folly,” where spoken-word insight pairs with glistening keys and a trip-hop rhythmic fixation. A what-if scenario of humans being overtaken by AI ensues. The vocals set the circumstance of if “machines were given instructions they perceived as a threat, or a threat to their kind” — asking: “Would they carry it out?” Similar technological themes succeed later as well with “The Night Before Tomorrow,” where clanging piano and electric guitar coexist with barking dog effects — and a “future is near … a singular dawning arrived at long last” scene-setting, when humanity has been surpassed. Its haunting twist on the classic holiday poem is delectably eerie, depicting convening world leaders and half-written treaties and a spine-tingling “and we’re all gonna die” declaration.
Another standout track, “I Kissed the Devil” builds with climactic fury as understated piano and late-night guitars meld with observations of looming evil in society, contributing to its decay. “Wake me up when it’s over,” an anguished vocal commencement stirs, building into soaring guitar tones and vocal introspections — admitting “I kissed the devil on the mouth one time,” and alternating between enjoying and loathing the effect. The open-hearted, confessional allure also shows on album finale “Here’s to Forgetting,” sounding parts burlesque and parts Lynchian soundscape. Blaring organs, woozy brass, and a “here’s to forgetting” toast cap off the album with playful vigor, employing humor as a tool to navigate through personal tumult. An eclectic, personality-filled success, Beautiful Terrible Things is a captivating showcase in creative, invigorating songwriting from Anomaly Report.
