Pet Shop Boys - Nonetheless - album review

By Olivia Kendall.

Pet Shop Boys are hardly a duo that needs introducing – a household name since the 80s, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe have returned with the very sound they are known for. Nonetheless is Pet Shop Boys’ fifteenth studio album which releases on 26th April 2024, building on an already impressive discography. 

The album opens with already-released single ‘Loneliness’. This earworm is sure to get stuck in your head for all the best reasons. Despite the lyrics being more morose and pondering and dealing with the idea of being alone, you can’t help but feel an urge to dance along to the relatable tune as it pulls you out of solitude. Later on, ‘Why am I dancing?’ carries a similar tone; the song seems to express the joy we can still hold on to during periods of hardship: “Why am I dancing when I’m so alone? Maybe I can celebrate on my own”. This song is an injection of hope for listeners and tells you that it is okay to smile and dance even if you’re experiencing trouble.

‘Dancing star’ is the fifth song of Nonetheless. Tennant, having watched a documentary on Rudolf Nureyev, made this song about the Soviet-born ballet dancer and choreographer. As well as being catchy, the synth-filled single gives us a glimpse of history through a musical lens. Following a few songs later is ‘The secret of happiness’, which, compared to most songs on Nonetheless, has a sound more focussed on relaxation than dancing, proving that there is a song for every mood. Rounding off the album is ‘Love is the law’, a song which explores the nature of love and the power it has throughout humanity. It has a serious and foreboding tone to it that comes with the sharp repeating piano, which calms during the chorus. Strings seem to work alongside the harsher piano as it progresses and adds a beautiful harmony. ‘Love is the law’ is a wonderful final song for the album, with the final minute solidifying it as my personal favourite.

Overall, Nonetheless is a fabulous album for both newer and older fans, with Pet Shop Boys still retaining the synthy sound that made them so popular to begin with.