When life is unfair and it feels like things are going nowhere, Lydia Night’s vocals are the only consolation.

Following their hit album “How Do You Love?” released in 2019, The Regrettes finally released their third studio album. Progressing from a punk rock, alternative style, the band explored a more pop flair in “Further Joy.” Though I was initially hesitant about this new look, it emerged just in time to encapsulate the budding, exuberant feeling spring always brings. This album commemorates a new period in my life — the start of my hot girl era.

Lydia Night, the lead singer of The Regrettes, has officially done it again. Delivered in the same in-your-face, unapologetic way as always, the album boasts 13 songs glowing with sparkling, captivating melodies.

Although disguised under catchy riffs and dancing-pop ballads, this album is brutal in its honesty. The band has always made me feel heard, shouting the thoughts I keep to myself loudly, and layering a smooth tune over it. Covering every topic imaginable — from homesickness to sexuality to infatuation to the sick feeling of being unwanted — this album is unstoppable. 

Vulnerability is engrained in every note, and obvious traces of their past punk style remain, like gum stuck between your teeth. This can be seen in songs such as “Barely On My Mind,” which employs similarly powerful riffs and lyrics. Rolling down the windows on my metaphorical pink Cadillac, this song was empowering and endless in its intensity

“Nowhere” is a song for those who feel uninspired and constantly running out of time — hurting and healing in every breath. Though these feelings may persist, I know the four talented artists that make up The Regrettes have my back. 

Other notable tracks are “Subtleties (Never Giving Up on You),” reminding me that love is, in fact, real. Backed with twittering birds, the song feels like being bathed in sunlight, laid bare under the scrutiny of those around you. Next is “Better Now,” explaining the feeling of being outside of your skin, in painstaking honesty.

“Rosy” is the most indicative of the spirit portrayed throughout the album. It eulogizes a relationship seen through rose-tinted glasses, thus exposing the deluge we often find ourselves inundated in. When chasing joy and perfection, it’s easy to get trapped in a loop of self-doubt, and the persistent feeling of never being good enough. 

Beaming and bright, I’ve never been more proud of an album. Riding on the curtails of “Further Joy,” I feel inspired and buoyant — joy doesn’t have to be a far-off, unattainable dream. 

“Further Joy”: ★★★★★