Sheer Mag - Playing Favorites Review

Playing Favorites is Sheer Mag’s most ambitious album yet.

Sheer Mag's latest album Playing Favorites marks a significant evolution for the band while staying firmly rooted in their signature sound. Throughout the album, the band offers their most diverse record yet with an unbridled confidence, blending refined rock with a sense of theatrics.

One of the most striking aspects of Playing Favorites is its emotional depth. While the album explores moments of melancholy and chaos inherent in urban life, Sheer Mag avoids descending into cynicism. Instead, they approach these themes with empathetic clarity, inviting listeners to connect on a deeper level. From the self-assured swagger of the title track to the lushly cinematic heights of ‘Mechanical Garden’ each song contributes to a cohesive yet ambitious record.

Lyrically, Playing Favorites delves into existential themes and interpersonal storytelling with newfound depth. Vocalist Tina Halladay's poignant delivery, supported by ornate background harmonies, elevates the storytelling to new heights, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in the narrative.

With a cinematic quality to its composition, Playing Favorites unfolds like scenes in a larger narrative. Glam theatrics seamlessly transition into psychedelic interludes. The album's embrace of arena-sized choruses is another standout element of the record. Tracks like ‘Golden Hour’ and ‘When You Get Back’ boast infectious hooks that demand sing-alongs, showcasing Sheer Mag's knack for crafting memorable, anthemic melodies.

While Playing Favorites represents a departure from their previous material, it feels like the most realised Sheer Mag release yet. Halladay's vocals are at their cleanest, and to great effect.

Overall, Playing Favorites is a testament to Sheer Mag's growth and versatility as musicians. It's an album that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers of depth and complexity with each spin. With this release, Sheer Mag proves why they're a force to be reckoned with in the world of fuzzed up rock.