In their 13th album, “The Demise of Planet X,” the British post-punk duo Sleaford Mods have once again delivered a brutally honest and darkly humorous commentary on the state of the world. Led by the inimitable Jason Williamson, whose words paint a vivid picture of everyday frustrations and societal ills, the band continues to captivate with their unique brand of potty-mouthed poetry.
Williamson, the group’s lyricist, remains as baffled and infuriated as ever by the absurdities that surround him, whether it’s the emptiness of modern digital life (“Weights and wanking / Hard bodies and phone lights / That’s all we got”), the rise of the far-right (“Maga’s off their tits”), or the minor annoyances of daily life (“Lazy dog walkers on short walks, mate, wanker!”). Yet, this time, the duo has gently broadened their appeal by showcasing a newfound vulnerability.
On the harrowing “Gina Was,” Williamson delves into a haunting childhood incident, displaying a raw emotional depth that complements the group’s signature abrasive sound. Meanwhile, Andrew Fearn, the band’s musical mastermind, has subtly expanded his production, incorporating classical strings on “Double Diamond” and collaborating with a diverse range of artists, including “Game of Thrones” actress Gwendoline Christie and singer-songwriter David Bowie-esque crooner Big Special.
The album’s unexpected highlight, “No Touch,” showcases the duo’s ability to balance their trademark acerbic wit with moments of unexpected charm. In this track, Williamson and former Life Without Buildings singer Sue Tompkins engage in a comically bickering exchange, as Tompkins playfully teases out the human being behind Williamson’s gruff exterior. “You’re not miserable, you’re nice,” she tells him, as he protests – unconvincingly – “I’m not.”
Throughout “The Demise of Planet X,” Sleaford Mods continue to push the boundaries of their sound, blending their signature electro-punk aesthetic with a broader range of influences. The result is a captivating and multifaceted album that solidifies the duo’s status as one of the most compelling and provocative voices in contemporary British music.