Album Review // Yard Act // Where's My Utopia?

Island Records

Coming two years after breaking into the post-punk sphere with The Overload, Leeds-based rock band Yard Act returned in March with Where's My Utopia? Described as a free- formed follow-up by band frontman James Smith, the group weaves pop and disco sensibilities into their formative sound. A clear example of this mix is the record's lead single "Dream Job." A punchy and driving beat backs a singalong chorus and bridge.

Like most sophomore studio albums, Yard Act uses its larger stage to get cynical and reflective. Smith's lyrics are rife with social commentary surrounding the music industry and consumerism. Songs like "We Make Hits" and "Fizzy Fish" serve as direct cries against the downsides of groupthink and selling out.

However, the lyrics also serve as meditations on the internal.

"Down by the Stream" starts as a retelling of a childhood story before it quickly shifts into a rumination on how Smith and others relentlessly teased their peer Jono for being an immigrant. The track ends with Smith apologizing to Jono for his actions, admitting that he wishes he would have done something when it mattered.

Where's My Utopia? is a rallying cry for societal introspection and action.