Chicago’s very own punk rock champions, Sincere Engineer, are back to save us all from our own internal monologues with their absolute kick-ass fourth studio album, ‘Probable Claws‘. Frontwoman Deanna Belos continues to prove she is the undisputed queen of turning intense, everyday anxiety into anthems that make you want to give a welcoming headbutt to a stranger in a packed music venue. ‘Probable Claws‘ perfectly captures the band’s signature blend of gritty Midwest emo and infectious pop-punk energy. It is an incredibly fun, fast-paced, and delightfully self-deprecating ride that feels like venting to your best friend over a plate of gas station corn dogs.
While the entire album is a certified front-to-back banger, three specific tracks claw their way to the front of the pack. The explosive opener, “Twist My Tongue”, immediately kicks the door down with a bouncy, boisterous rhythm about completely freezing up during an argument and coming up with the perfect comeback exactly two seconds too late. Then there is “Cooler“, a hilariously relatable anthem that pairs a frantic punk beat with the sheer dread of watching a bag of ice melt in your backseat while a police officer runs your license plate. Finally, the album delivers its beautiful, nostalgic emotional centerpiece with “Arborvitae Evergreen“, a brilliantly crafted, slow-burning love letter to childhood memories that effortlessly balances sweet sentimentality with roaring guitars.
In the end, ‘Probable Claws‘ is a glorious reminder of why Sincere Engineer is universally adored by both fans and touring peers alike. It is a loud, proud, and unapologetically heartfelt collection of songs that manages to find profound joy and humor right in the middle of life’s wildest, ticking-clock daily panic attacks. Whether you are driving down the highway with the windows down or screaming along while doing the dishes, this album provides the perfect cathartic release. Do yourself a favor and give this album a spin today.
Links of interest:
https://www.instagram.com/sincereengineer
http://ffm.to/seprobableclaws