Math-Rock Outfit FXTRT Are Here For A Good Time With First Full-Length After 10 Years

Even after 10 years since their formation, FXTRT are showing the scene they’re here to stay (Credit: Courtesy of FXTRT)

For local math-rock outfit FXTRT, irregularities weren’t just in the nature of their music. Despite forming back in 2014 with glowing accolades like a Baybeats booking and a couple of EPs, the spirited quartet slipped into the danger zone following pandemic woes and the departure of a founding member. But like any feel-good comeback tale, the FXTRT fighters sailed on their second wind with a restored full roster and renewed inspiration – a surge that’s now culminated in the release of their debut full-length, Here For A Good Time; For A Long Time.

The sense of mischief transcends the band’s way with track titles and marketing tactics. In the album’s description, it admits that its covered tropes of trials and tribulations, dating apps and internet memetic history are merely “an elevator pitch to get you past the weird door” that is their music. And sure enough, it’s an oddball approach that underscores a band not afraid of making mistakes, but instead empowered by not giving a hoot.

It plays out palpably in album opener “Not Here For A Good Time, Not Here For A Long Time”, with lackadaisical vocals that howl and yelp, running parallel with a stray, main-character-energy guitar hook that’s living its best life with core melodies and cheeky quivers. “Feels Like All My Friends Are Getting Married” is a comfortable nod to their math-y roots; a chunky number playing around with tempos and time signatures alongside intentionally raw instrumentals. And then you have the kooky and unhinged “Tide Pods”, filled with more frantic bursts and restrained breakdowns like a drama with too many plot twists. But then again, being predictable was never their jam. This is a FXTRT that’s found their footing again post-stumble, and they’re definitely here for a good time.