Sisters stick to winning formula for sixth album

Two years after “The Con” delighted ears, sister act Tegan and Sara deliver another dose of heady, unadulterated emotion that, like sunlight, both warms and sears.
“Sainthood” might have sprung from the tear-stained pages of an angsty teen’s diary: touching, melodramatic and composed with an inhibition that can only be fostered by a small, metallic lock and carefully hidden key.    

With unique vocals in harmony, the guitar-toting twins create a sound track for raw, human feelings. Harsh, discordant chords back frustration and longing. Quick, quirky notes emphasize hope and optimism. Fear and anxiety are adorably packaged in clever wordplay and catchy choruses. 

The album commences with “Arrow” – a song sung slowly to choppy notes and robotic rhythm. “I take my aim. You feel me coming close,” belt the twins in a petulant yet profound manner. Clever metaphors are intertwined with catchy, vocal repetitions, as heard previously in many of the twins’ melodies. The song ends abruptly, like a mood swing abated – another Tegan and Sara signature move.

Relationship issues and inner doubt manifest as central issues as the album progresses. Though Tegan and Sara are nearly 30, lyrics are frequently tender and childish. “Go steady with me / I know it turns you off when I get talking like a teen,” they plead in “On Directing.” Obvious euphemisms and simplified statements soften angry edge in “The Cure”: “I know the world’s been mean to you / I’ve got a cure, hold tight.”

“Sentimental Tune” gives listeners a taste of the band’s classic, entertaining wit: “With a bit of friction, I’ll be under your clothes / With a bit of focus, I’ll be under your skin.”

Although musically sound, “Sainthood” is predictably similar to the duo’s previous efforts. Tracks like “The Ocean” and “Red Belt” could serve as a continuation to 2004’s “So Jealous,” as though the band is still stuck in the same difficult relationship.

But Madonna-esque evolution isn’t necessary for rockin’ tunes. If fixation on dysfunction works, why change it? Tegan and Sara give beauty to the dramatic, endearment to the sad.

“Sainthood” is a poetic plea, quip, argument and challenge sparked by one prominent desire: Love me.