There’s quite an interesting story behind Anemia Report. Originally formed in the 1980s, the group went through a hiatus at the turn of the millennium, only to get back into action just before the pandemic. Fierce actors in the Chicago hardcore and punk scene, the band has been seen expanding their styling to more eclectic and electronic bays lately. Well, that period has now ended, with Anemia Report taking a conscious choice towards traditional guitar-powered storytelling and songwriting.
‘God Laughs: Reflections on the Dark Art of Living for Another Day’ is the intriguing result of such a process, a deep dive into the band’s roots, as in sleazy, raw and vintage arrangements. At a time when every record is over-polished, such qualities are a godsend. Anemia Report deliver authenticity and honesty, aiming to connect with the listeners in a truthful, unfiltered way.
They do so by empowering fuzzy distortion, gloomy bass lines and anthemic guitar grooves, with the occasional sax addition and electronic garments (see ‘Old Habits’ for a more colourful musical piece). Speaking about the inspiration behind the record, Anemia Report explain: “It was composed and recorded during a period of loss. Much of the song’s lyrical content deals with the challenges in overcoming depression, fear, and questions surrounding the death of loved ones”.
Recommended! Discover ‘God Laughs: Reflections on the Dark Art of Living for Another Day’ on Spotify: