8/10

Ever since they first emerged with their stunning self-titled debut album in 2018, London-based trio Dream Wife have quickly cemented themselves as one of the more thought-provoking names on the indie-rock scene. With raw and passionate direction that has allowed lead singer Rakel Mjöll to inject their material with socially conscious and political aligned lyrics, they have cultivated a brilliantly engaging sound that also served them extremely well through their sophomore outing 'So When You Gonna...' in 2020. Now returning with their third full-length 'Social Lubrication', the band look to bring a heady dose of swagger to their latest release.

Throughout their career so far, the Dream Wife sound has largely been a loud and brash experience that blends a rigorous energy with some brilliantly infectious hooks. And while that remains consistent throughout 'Social Lubrication' as well, there is this thread of high-octane fun mixed into this new collection. While the messaging and social commentary remain stalwart within their newest offering, there is also this carefree approach to their aesthetic this time around, making for a wonderfully euphoric and danceable listen.

While a serious tone has always had its place within the Dream Wife sound, 'Social Lubrication' is a far more confident and assured release as the three seem more keen to start a riot this time around. Venomous and angry as always, they have this cacophonous approach to their material here that really suits the broad strides they have been making already.