EP REVIEW
12/03/2025 - permanent (joy), Despair will Make me a modern man
Source: Despair Will Make Me A Modern Man, Permanent (Joy) Album Artwork.
Words By Emily Jade Ricalton
Forming in September 2024, Permanent (Joy) have made a great impact on the indie music scene already. From recently supporting Inhaler on tour to having shows with both Blossoms and Franz Ferdinand, Permanent (Joy), formerly known as Blondes, are definitely one to watch out for and there is no denying that in their new EP, Despair Will Make Me A Modern Man.
Starting off with Josephine, the EP is encompassed with a reminiscent indie sound that was very common in the 2015 era. With a similar sound to bands like The Magic Gang, Josephine is a sweet, yet melancholy track. Lyrics, such as ‘I heard the catholic girls, Praying they won’t die’ and ‘I pray that I won’t cry’, give an understanding of death and loss to the song. Having been influenced by ‘The Aeroplane Over The Sea’ by Jeff Magnum, which is a concept album about the themes of life and death, it is clear to see that Permanent (Joy) have a strong vision when it comes to portraying this new band.
We are then introduced to the second track of the EP, Save My Life. Unlike Josephine, Save My Life has a fast beat. The quick strumming pattern of the guitar within this song almost resembles a panic. It is hard to concentrate on, yet very reflective of the song title itself. With this, the repeated use of the lyrics ‘Cause I’m alright’ seems to be a reassurance to this panic. The lyrics and actual musical elements of this song complement one another very well, making it an emotionally intelligent piece. The breakdown of the track within the chorus is beautifully done. By using a heavier guitar, the chorus becomes reflective of bands like JAWS. Personally, I love the sound that Permanent (Joy) are creating in Save My Life. It is nostalgic and just overall well constructed.
Stereotypical of a love song, but still unique in its own way, Aeroplane is definitely a standout track in the EP. It has a soft acoustic guitar that is joyful, yet pensive. Within the song, Alex, lead-singer and songwriter of Permanent (Joy), asks the listener ‘Show me how to love you more’. The lyrics are reflective and impactful. The track itself shows great development in the songwriting of the band, especially compared to their days in Blondes. There is a great depth to their music, and I definitely think Aeroplane is a great contender in becoming the perfect song to listen to when experiencing heartbreak or loss.
With this, I Wanna Go Home shows a moodier side to Permanent (Joy). There is a synthesized affect to the song. Within each verse, the beat breaks down into this whirl of sound. It’s dark, it’s depressive, it's grungy, but it is truly fantastic. Without a doubt, I Wanna Go Home is my personal favourite on the EP. It represents everything that indie music should be.
I personally believe that Permanent (Joy) will go far in the music industry. They are a band that has a nostalgic element to their music. Reminiscent of the indie scene throughout the 2010s, their music will hold high-regard in the fans of this specific movement. With a scene that seems to be forever dying, with bands breaking up left, right and centre, Permanent (Joy) add an element of hope to this.
With well-crafted lyrics and musical breakdowns that are deep and thoughtful, Despair Will Make Me A Modern Man is a faultless EP. It is what indie rock music should be in its true form, and I cannot wait to see what Permanent (Joy) release next.
Tracks to Listen to - I Wanna Go Home, Untitled, Save My Life
Rating - 5/5
Tracks to Listen to -
Rating - 5/5
