Pons - The Liquid Self (2023) [Hi-Res]

Their new album, The Liquid Self, is a triumph, and not just because it's Pons' first LP on a label. Joining Dedstrange, they now rank with noise-rockers A Place to Bury Strangers and No Age's drone-scape composer Randy Randall.

Though the record has been complete for years, Pons held off on releasing it until they secured it a safe home and made a name for themselves in the New York scene. Being named Hardest-Working Band of 2022 by renowned music blog and show aggregator Oh My Rockness is indisputable evidence of their impact.

Hot on the tail of Pons' massive 2023 summer tour, which included 60-plus shows in American cities from Boston to Austin, Texas, The Liquid Self is the group's biggest release in terms of concept. Pons' work is always thematic and existential. But the new album is a rock opera drenched in mythical storytelling, adding new depth to the pools of paranoia in which the band so often swims.