When The Raveonettes emerged onto the scene ten years ago many thought they were not built for longevity. Obvious comparisons to The Jesus and Mary Chain, boy/girl combo singing about love and death, they were not expected to leave much of an impression. But, here they are ten years later with a new album, Observator. Born from the depression Sune Wagner found himself struggling with, alongside Sharin Foo, they have managed to create a great little collection of classic pop songs. 

Everything you would normally expect from a Raveonettes is apparent here. Bittersweet pop, heavy distortion and atmospheric, plinky plonky vibes. Young and Cold as an opener isn’t the most engaging track, but it brings a hint of romance and approaches the subject of growing old too quickly. The Enemy perfectly sums up the band both lyrically and musically, with a feeling of betrayal along with the sweet vocals, it is beautifully melancholic. 

She Owns The Street brings about an air of PJ Harvey, and the beat of Curse The Night gives a slight edge the duo may not have entertained before. Something to note is the very dark feeling over this album, which may be down to the fact of Wagners struggle with depression, and also his open struggle with booze and drugs during the writing and recording. The stand out track for me is album closer Till The End. Echoing, strung out vocals, dimple guitars but a dark noise over it, slightly punky. You can clearly hear the influence of producer Richard Gottehrer who has previously worked with the likes of Blondie and Richard Hell. 

While Observator is no giant leap forward for The Raveonettes it is a great presentation of a formula they have nailed. For those who are fans it is a treat, for those who aren’t, it may take a little more convincing. 

Caris Smith