Swedish natives The Sounds are back with their fourth full length album. Something to Die For is yet another compilation of New Wave-esque synth pop. There is a heavy blend of synthesis, clapping back-beats, thumping house bass, and electronic keyboard notes that creates a complex and at times chaotic sound.

The Sounds continue to pack an endless amount of energy, but the incessant grinding guitar chords and overly synthesized instrumentation does little for the album. Tracks like “Better Off Dead” and “Diana” show promise as lead singer Maja Ivarsson broods over insightfully dark and melancholy lyrics. Sadly, though, the fine points of these tracks are clouded by too much complexity and background noise.

Not all is lost though. Something to Die For does have its redeeming moments. “Wish You Were Here” is a sad and desperate cry with a catchy and pleasant melody. While grating synths reminiscent of the ’80s threatens to drown out the positives of this track, the band manages to keep its momentum going and produce an upbeat and enjoyable song. The final track, an untitled bonus, is unlike anything else on the album. It is simple, soft, and heartfelt. They refrain from manipulating the instrumentation and Ivrasson’s vocals are given a true opportunity to shine.

The Sounds is a band that sticks to their guns — they know what they like and they are unafraid to create an album that is true to who they are. This is admirable, but unfortunately doesn’t always work in their favor. There are a lot of great things on this album: impressive lyricism, beautiful vocals, and innovation. If they could streamline their sound and remove some of the unnecessary excess (static-y noise, ill-fitting harmonies) they could produce an album that is truly great.

(Side One Dummy Records, 1944 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90068)