Ought - Disgraced in America

Indie tropes are followed then discarded on Montreal band's elegant political rant

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With it's driving drums and ringing guitars, "Disgraced in America" starts like a thousand indie tracks, albeit a pretty good one. Early on though, there are hints of subversion as singer Tim Darcy shifts to an almost comical tone on some lines. Midway, the music slows down to a jazzy groove, Darcy's vocal more warm and soothing. Soon, guitars kick back in, drums become more frantic, a sax appears from nowhere, and the jazz becomes free. Sticking with the song from its predictable beginning and being wrong-footed is the best treat.