UTO (FR)

When All We Want To Do Is Be The Fire Part Of Fire… repeat these words endlessly like a mantra, just as UTO did.

Anyone familiar with Touch The Lock, UTO’s debut album released in 2022 and praised by Pitchfork for its “prismatic synth pop,” knows the scope of the duo’s vision and their diverse inspirations. This new album is just as colorful. Neysa’s vocal work, evoking the off-kilter voices of Kim Gordon, is elevated by post-electronica mixing, offering a blend of stylized indie sleaze productions and ’90s breakbeats.

By their own admission, 2023 was a challenging year. This struggle is reflected in the epic themes explored in tracks like Midway and the lead single Zombie, which arrived at the end of November as a preview of the new album. The song’s dark core is counterbalanced by shimmering rhythms, glitchy electronics, and punchy sequencers that lift it from the void.

From fire, the discovery of early humans, to AI, humanity’s next great adventure, and through all the wonders and complexities of human relationships, When All You Want To Do Is Be The Fire Part Of Fire truly speaks about life, the universe, and everything. Remember: be the flame, not the moth.