When Guided by Voices started out as a part-time basement project in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Robert Pollard mastered the art of crafting brief pop gems—songs under two minutes packed with quirky melodies and catchy hooks. Given the limitations of recording on a cheap four-track cassette, the constraints of form inevitably shaped the content. However, since unveiling their lineup with 2017’s *August by Cake*, Pollard has subtly embraced the studio’s potential, evolving his songwriting style. Although he hasn’t moved towards rock operas or extended tracks, his love for prog-rock—a flavor that was occasionally present in the 1990s and 2000s—has become more pronounced.
Their 2024 release, Strut of Kings, showcases Pollard’s foray into High Prog Mode, featuring grand melodies, powerful guitars, dynamic arrangements, and dramatic drumming. The album retains the essence of Guided by Voices, with familiar melodic structures, yet expands their sound significantly. Tracks like “Dear Onion,” “Fictional Environment Dream,” and “Timing Voice” echo the classic GbV style—smart, hooky, and straightforward. In contrast, the acoustic moods of “This Will Go On” and “Bit of a Crunch,” the midtempo grandeur of “Leaving Umbrella,” the glam-infused swagger of “Cavemen Running Naked,” and the anthemic “Bicycle Garden” reveal a more ambitious Guided by Voices than the band behind *Alien Lanes* or Isolation Drills.
Pollard’s commitment to pushing his songwriting boundaries is matched by his band’s skill and creativity. Guitarists Doug Gillard and Bobby Bare Jr., bassist Mark Shue, and drummer Kevin March continue to prove themselves as the most capable and versatile lineup the band has ever had. As Guided by Voices approaches their fourth decade, *Strut of Kings* demonstrates that they’re not only at their peak but also evolving and exploring new musical territories. From their humble beginnings with beer and four-tracks, they’ve grown into a truly great band, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive.
English