Following some first listens of Introduction, Presence (2020) and A Way Forward (2021) by Nation of Language, it was easy to assume, “UK band!” But no, no. This Brooklyn trio crafts a luminous synth-pop ’80s New Wave feast for the ears so genuine that connecting their sound to any Human League/OMD/Depeche Mode/early Tears For Fears vibe is completely understandable. Yet this is no pale imitation, as synth master Aidan Noell, vocalist IanDevaney and bassist Alex MacKay give attention to every detail of their intuitive compositions. Then along comes their third LP, Strange Disciple, produced by Nick Millhiser (LCD Soundsystem), featuring sonic textures that add more layers to the band’s typically minimalistic approach. Bigger, fuller and absolute gold.
Catch Nation of Language at their performance tonight, Thursday Nov. 2, at the Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St. Doors at 6:30 p.m., with New York-based artist Miss Grit opening the show.
