After 20 years of exploring the boundaries of electronic pop, Ladytron has defined a sound that is wholly their own with their 2019 self-titled album. In choosing an eponymous title for their sixth studio release, the group exudes a confidence in their craft that comes with being older, wiser and bolder – unconcerned with fitting into a perfect genre package – all of which was clear during their Dec. 11 stop at Metro in Chicago.
Throughout the night, fans followed Ladytron – comprised of Helen Marnie, Mira Aroyo, Daniel Hunt and Reuben Wu along with touring drummer, Billy Brown – through the wonder of a disorienting dream world fabricated by ethereal vocals, industrial beats and effortless cool drifting from the stage in rising tides. The setlist spanned the group’s entire discography though songs from the latest release best exemplified the quartet’s range.
“Has anyone bought our new album,” asked Marnie as cheers arose from the crowd. “This next one is called ‘Deadzone.’”
The pulsing backbone of the aforementioned tune was even more haunting in the live setting as the repetitious closing lyrics unfolded with each line mirrored upon itself as Marnie sang, “Don’t come knocking with your night moves / My resistance is your weakness,” again and again. The unsettling analog sounds created by Aroyo and her Korg swirled into the ether, creating an unexpected sonic aura to compliment the evocative vocal story.
Ladytron has a handful of tour dates left on the 2019 calendar before closing things out at The UC Theatre in Berkeley on Dec. 14. Head over to Ladytron.com for more information about shows, albums, news and more.