Alternative Pop Rock from The Suburbs

Hailing from the Minneapolis music scene of the late 70s and 80s, The Suburbs earned a reputation as one of the most beloved local acts of their era. Known for their infectious blend of punk energy and new wave stylings, this band has managed to stay true to their roots while still evolving their sound over several decades.

Formed in 1977 by vocalist and keyboardist Chan Poling and lead guitarist Blaine John Chaney, the band quickly gained traction with their edgy yet melodic approach. Their early releases on Twin/Tone Records, including the 1979 single “World War III” and their 1980 debut album In Combo, confirmed their status as pioneers of the Minneapolis sound, fusing guitars, dance-focused rhythms and alternative pop vibes.

Fast forward to 2021, and The Suburbs are still going strong with their latest record, Poets Party, a twelve-track record that proves their enduring relevance in the modern music landscape. Among the tracks is their newest single “Buckle My Head,” a song that bridges the past and present, showcasing everything that made The Suburbs a cornerstone of the Minneapolis scene.

“Buckle My Head” delivers an uptempo a three-minute dose of The Suburbs’ trademark sound. Bursting with funky rhythms, slick production and Chan’s lively vocals, the track nods to the band’s earlier hits like “Love Is the Law” and “Credit In Heaven.” Yet, the song doesn’t feel like a nostalgic throwback; instead, it sounds modern, shiny and incredibly catchy, illustrating The Suburbs’ knack for developing their sound while maintaining their distinct output.

Driven by the snap of drums and vibrant pulse of galloping bass lines, intricate guitar rhythms and horn blasts pepper the grooving arrangement, adding a colourful, celebratory energy to the track. Capped by engaging vocal leads that hover above the danceable charge of the instrumentation, “Buckle My Head” sees The Suburbs continue to operate at the very top of their game.

Paired with the single is a superb lyric video that perfectly match the song’s energy, featuring spinning drumsticks and guitar picks, and a suited businessman with a flaming head, the imagery captures the chaos and controlled frenzy of the music itself. The animation, with its constant motion and constant shifts, mirrors the band’s ability to keep listeners on their toes, never staying still but always propelling forward, resulting in a compelling visual experience to match their stellar single.

Watch the music video for Buckle My Head below

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