What makes Face Control by Handsome Furs notable?

Face Control received positive reviews and solidified Handsome Furs' reputation within the indie rock scene. The album's single, 'I'm Confused,' exemplified their experimental approach and contributed to a growing interest in Canadian indie music during this period. Additionally, it showcased themes of cultural identity and globalization that resonated with listeners beyond Canada. Released on March 10, 2009, Face Control was the third album by Handsome Furs, coming after their critically acclaimed sophomore effort, Plague Park. At this point in their career, the duo of Dan Boeckner and Alexei Perry were solidifying their unique sound that mixed elements of indie rock with electronic influences, drawing from their experiences touring internationally.

How many songs are on Face Control?

Face Control has 12 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Face Control

Handsome Furs · 2009

38 min · 12 tracks · indie rock

A gritty blend of synth-driven beats and raw, emotive vocals layered over a backdrop of urban disillusionment.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Legal Tender — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its driving rhythm and commentary on materialism, encapsulating the album's thematic focus.
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I'm Confused — 'I'm Confused' stands out for its introspective lyrics and catchy hook, acting as a personal reflection amidst the album's broader social critique.
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Nyet Spasiba — This track's juxtaposition of upbeat melodies with darker lyrical themes highlights the band's ability to blend contrasting emotions effectively.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album blends gritty synths with emotive vocals, showcasing a distinct sound within the indie rock genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a driving synth beat in 'Legal Tender' that sets a gritty tone, which is maintained throughout most tracks.
Several tracks feature spoken word elements layered over music, creating a sense of urban storytelling.
The use of contrasting dynamics is notable; many songs alternate between intense, energetic sections and quieter, reflective moments.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

I'm Confused

The bridge presents a stark contrast in lyrical perspective that shifts from observation to a more direct engagement with self-doubt.

This shift creates an emotional pivot in the song, emphasizing personal struggle against a backdrop of societal expectations.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Legal Tender 2:50
2 Evangeline 3:40
3 Talking Hotel Arbat Blues 2:41
4 (Passport Kontrol) 1:24
5 All We Want, Baby, Is Everything 3:09
6 I'm Confused 3:36
7 (White City) 1:27
8 Nyet Spasiba 4:18
9 Officer of Hearts 5:45
10 (It's Not Me, It's You) 1:33
11 Thy Will Be Done 3:16
12 Radio Kaliningrad 4:53

What to play next

Listen next

Sound Kapital

2011

Go back to

Plague Park

2007

Full Handsome Furs discography Artists like Handsome Furs

indie rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata