Stuffed Foxes – Standardized CD (Stolen Body Records, Reverse Tapes, Figures Libres)

Released on December 6th, 2024, through Bristol’s Stolen Body Records and French labels Reverse Tapes and Figures Libres, Standardized by Stuffed Foxes is a fascinating voyage through shoegaze, noise rock, alternative, indie, no wave, and drone music. True to its predecessors, Standardized showcases Stuffed Foxes’ talent for creating immersive, cathartic and mesmerizing soundscapes. From the initial notes and beats, Standardized envelops the listener in a swirling mist of sound. The album’s production, led by Thomas Poli and mastered by Matt Colton, grasps the raw, live energy of their performance. Recorded at the Impersonal Freedom Studio in Rennes, the record preserves the spontaneity and collective creativity that define Stuffed Foxes. Each track feels like an organic outpouring of emotion and experimentation, born from the band’s communal approach to songwriting and endless jam sessions.

The vocal performance represents a standout feature that grabs attention and guides listeners. Stuffed Foxes’ ability to blend ethereal, reverb-soaked melodies with moments of abrasive urgency creates a dynamic listening experience that keeps you on edge. The vocals float above the layers of sound, balancing delicate, melodic passages with powerful, emotive outbursts. This impressive vocal range, shifting between low, mid, and high registers, adds depth and nuance to already rich textures. The guitar work exemplifies the contrasting nature of the band. Reverby and abrasive yet harmoniously melodic, the band delivers raw and cathartic riffs and chord progressions. Each track features layers of guitar that build into towering walls of noise, only to dissolve into moments of haunting stillness. The interplay between the guitars creates a sense of tension and release, drawing the listener deeper into the hypnotic atmosphere. Influences from My Bloody Valentine and Brian Jonestown Massacre are evident, but Stuffed Foxes infuse these inspirations with their own unique voice. The basslines provide a grounding force amid the swirling chaos of the guitars and vocals. Intricate and melodic, the basslines intertwine through the dense sonic layers, adding complexity and drive to the compositions. Whether anchoring the groove or stepping into the spotlight with melodic flourishes, the bass playing is a vital component of the album’s dynamic sound. The percussion drives the album forward, holding together the swirling layers of sound with precision and creativity. From steady, hypnotic rhythms to explosive bursts of energy, the drumming adds a sense of unpredictability and excitement. The use of both regular and unconventional time signatures enhances the album’s dynamic range, creating moments of intense urgency and meditative calm.

Stuffed Foxes’ democratic approach to creation shines through in Standardized. The album exemplifies the power of collaboration, with each band member contributing to the collective sound. This communal ethos is evident in the album’s long, hypnotic tracks, which ebb and flow with a natural spontaneity. Their shared history and camaraderie infuse the music with a sense of authenticity and cohesion, making Standardized not just an album but a shared experience. While Standardized pays homage to the band’s musical ancestors, drawing from the noise walls of My Bloody Valentine, the no-wave drones of Swans, and the psychedelic vibes of Brian Jonestown Massacre, Stuffed Foxes never fall into the trap of imitation. Instead, they channel these influences into their entirely unique sound. Their music is a joyful chaos, a celebration of noise and melody deeply rooted and forward-thinking. The swirling noise, the ethereal vocals, and the relentless rhythms come together to create a cathartic, personal, and universally relatable release. Each track is a journey through light and shadow, capturing the full spectrum of human emotion. This emotional depth, combined with the band’s technical skills, makes Standardized a deeply moving and unforgettable listening experience. Standardized is a monumental full-length album. It is an album that defies easy categorization, blending shoegaze, noise rock, alternative, indie, no wave, and drone into a cohesive whole. Every element showcases the band’s exceptional talent and endless creativity. Standardized is a statement of intent, a bold declaration of Stuffed Foxes’ place within the modern alternative music scene. You should immediately check out this masterpiece.