REVIEW

The second album from El Paso, Texas-based post-punk/shoegaze band Lesser Care.

Formed in 2019, Lesser Care’s first release was as a trio, but the current lineup appears to be a duo: Andres Chavez (Gt/Vo) and Zane Pacillas (Dr/Vo). Mastered by Will Yip, known for his work with Nothing and Turnover, this album layers dreamy guitar and synth textures over a foundation of decadent, energetic post-punk, complemented by echo-laden, soft vocals. The result is a sweeter sound that should appeal to fans of dream pop and shoegaze alike. Standout track #5 “Candy” features intertwining shimmering guitar lines that recall early DIIV, as if sandwiched between two split selves. #3 “STREETWEAR” leans into punk, delivering driving riffs and intense exchanges between guitar and drums. Guest vocals on #6 “HEAVENLY” introduce a beautiful male-female twin vocal harmony, demonstrating careful attention to shoegaze listeners’ sensibilities.

While the album maintains high production quality, its closer alignment with dream pop and shoegaze slightly softens the darker edge present in their earlier work. For those who favored the more gothic-tinged vocals of the previous release, this may feel a little less intense. Interpreted alongside the cover art—which depicts a figure wrapping bandages around what was once a bloodied chain—the stylistic shift can be seen as a reflection of healing and transition.