‘Fake Nudes’ by Barenaked Ladies (Album)

Barenaked Ladies: a band continuing to flex its creative muscle

One of Canada’s most famous exports return with album number 15, a reminder that they have never really left us

Some people might be surprised to hear that Barenaked Ladies have remained active since the release of their debut album in 1992. That’s 25 years as a band, a staggering achievement for any artist, especially one that averages an album every two years.

Founding member Ed Robertson still leads the way as vocalist and guitarist, although co-founder Steven Page left in 2009. But the band still sound like themselves. They still have that happy-go-lucky positivity to their songs, and that sense that they could write a decent song in any genre.

Single Lookin’ Up bounces and dances like a carnival crowd. It’s a distinctly modern pop song with dashes of electro energy. The acoustic guitar dominates Canada Dry, propping up vocals that tell stories in an Americana style. Invisible Fences replaces the acoustic guitar for an electric six string; the lyrics clearly referencing goings on in American politics.

Barenaked Ladies are known for writing creative and humorous lyrics. No two songs sound the same. Some songs are dominated by lively electronic sounds, while others, like Sunshine, are subtler. There is clear experimentation taking place, something Barenaked Ladies have always embraced.

Fake Nudes is a collection of songs rather than a wholly rounded album; something a band of this stature can produce knowing it won’t sound messy or confusing to listeners. The songs reflect a band continuing to flex its creative muscle, which Barenaked Ladies have always been good at. But, most importantly, it’s a band that are enjoying writing and recording songs. Even after 25 years, the songs sound fresh and exciting, but retain a hint of familiarity.

Verdict: Versatile pop songs that offer something for everyone

Dave Chrzanowski

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