Forgive them, greatness takes time

Five years is a long time to wait between albums.  

But every so often, a band emerges that is simply too ambitious and too capable to be rushed. Case in point: Broken Social Scene.

“Forgiveness Rock Record” is the Canadian gang’s fourth full-length record under the official Broken Social Scene name and their first since a self-titled effort in 2005 that won them their second Juno Award. They trimmed down their typically gigantic core lineup to seven this time around, but as always welcomed countless cameos from notable musicians and old friends alike, including ex-member Leslie Feist.

Similar to their last two releases, “Forgiveness” is a batch of 14 cathartic songs ranging from heavily detailed acoustic rock to brassy, balls-to-the-wall power pop. Only this time, with veteran producer John McEntire on board, their songs are tighter, more refined and more focused than ever. “Forgiveness” uses every tool in the box, cuts loose, and, of course, is full of sharp left turns.

No two songs of the first eight tracks sound anything alike, opening with the resolute, cymbal-crash-loaded “World Sick” and peaking at the joyous and shamelessly unsubtle instrumental track “Meet Me in the Basement.” Add other epic tracks like the irresistibly catchy “Art House Director” and “Water in Hell,” and “Forgiveness” will already warrant many repeat listens.