Notes On A Conditional Form is the much anticipated new release from English pop-rock band, The 1975. The album, which was released last week, has already caused quite a stir among fans and critics. However, any true fan of The 1975 will see Notes On A Conditional Form is simply a product of the band’s journey, providing a fitting ending to their current ‘era’…
From track one, we are made aware that this album is unlike any that the guys have produced before. To backing music that is quintessential to The 1975, Climate activist Greta Thunberg gives a powerful and hard-hitting speech, urging listeners to “wake up” and that noting that “it is time to rebel” against authority. The pace of the album then goes from 0-100 in a matter of seconds as the album’s second track, People, is played. People was the lead single released from Notes On A Conditional Form back in August 2019; it received a mixed reception at the time, being a world away from the style of music fans had become accustomed to. People is still the odd one out on the album, but it did what it needed to do – it got everyone’s attention.
The other six singles from Notes are more of what you’d typically expect from a 1975 album. Me & You Together Song is similar to that of the title track, The 1975 and People in the respect that it holds a strong message; it’s pretty much a big F-you to everyone who has questioned lead singer Matty’s sexuality over the years.
A few months after the release of Me & You Together Song, the band dropped If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know). Arguably the best song on the album, If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know) is wholly reminiscent of It’s Not Living (If It’s Not With You) from their last album, A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships. The catchy lyrics and upbeat rhythm will make you want to dance, whether you’re a dancer or not.
Through Notes On A Conditional Form, the boys have shown that they are cable of creating songs that are simply beautiful. The tranquil guitar chords and soft lyrics of Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America and Playing On My Mind transport the listener into a state of relaxation, while also provoking a strangely emotional reaction at the same time. Yet, there is one other record on this album that will definitely turn on the waterworks. The 22nd and final track on Notes, Guys, is the most wholesome tribute to friendship you will probably ever hear. Through the power of lyrics, Matty manages to express his love for his bandmates, summarised with the phrase “You guys are the best thing that ever happened to me.” The song is completely adorable.
There’s no denying that this album is a long one. The 22 tracks are a mixture of instrumental and lyrics, and it is for this reason that the album has received criticism. Some people say that Notes has too many instrumental songs, such as Shiny Collarbone and not enough lyricism, but they are missing the point entirely. The purpose of this album is to put an end to the ‘1975 era’ while also paying homage to the music fans have grown to love, which has undoubtedly been achieved.
In summary, despite the fact that Notes On A Conditional Form is wholly different from anything The 1975 has released before, it also compliments their previous work perfectly. Each album tells its own story, and this one is one of love – love for the environment, love for significant others and most importantly, the love between band members. Although Notes is probably not my favourite album from The 1975, it still contains some serious bops. What else would you want from a pop-rock album?
Rating: 8/10
By Jessica Goddard
Feature Image Credit: Dirty Hit