LABYRINTHITIS | DESTROYER

2022: Layered. Unpredictable. Uplifting. Euro. Destroyer is the musical project of Canadian singer-songwriter Dan Bejar, who is also known for his involvement in the indie rock supergroup The New Pornographers. Destroyer’s music is eclectic and experimental, drawing from various genres such as indie rock, glam rock, folk rock, jazz, and synth-pop. Destroyer’s lyrics are often witty, poetic, and obscure, featuring references to literature, art, history, and pop culture.

Labyrinthitis is the thirteenth studio album by Destroyer, released on March 25, 2022. The album was created by Bejar with longtime collaborator and producer John Collins and the Destroyer band. The album was primarily written in 2020 and recorded in winter/spring 2021. Bejar worked remotely from his home in Vancouver and Collins on Galiano Island, with the two sending ideas to each other from their respective locations.

Labyrinthitis is a diverse and adventurous album that showcases Destroyer’s musical sophistication and lyrical brilliance. The album features songs that range from smooth and funky grooves (“It’s in Your Heart Now”, “Tintoretto, It’s for You”) to epic and complex compositions (“June”, “The States”) to tender and melancholic ballads (“Suffer”, “All My Pretty Dresses”). The album also explores themes such as love, loss, nostalgia, alienation, and spirituality.

Labyrinthitis was a commercial and critical success, receiving positive reviews from various publications such as Pitchfork, The Quietus, and Genius. The album was also shortlisted for the 2022 Polaris Music Prize. Labyrinthitis is an album that deserves to be listened to from start to finish, as it takes the listener on a musical journey that is both captivating and rewarding. It is an album that showcases Destroyer’s artistic vision, musical talent, and creative genius. It is an album that transcends genres and generations, and remains relevant and influential to this day.