Lutalo’s debut album, The Academy, is a reflective and deeply personal exploration of their youth, grappling with themes of class, societal disillusionment, and the fallacy of the American dream. The album is named after Lutalo’s former school in Minnesota, which also served as a backdrop to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s writing. Through this lens, Lutalo uses the album to capture the stark contrasts between wealth and poverty, particularly their experiences attending an elite school on a scholarship.
Musically, The Academy is an eclectic mix of folk, alt-rock, post-punk, and soul, with Lutalo handling every instrument themselves. Tracks like “Ocean Swallows Him Whole” and “Ganon” showcase this range, blending Smashing Pumpkins-style rock with quieter, introspective moments. The lyrics are laden with social commentary, as seen in “Big Brother,” which addresses the economic collapse’s impact on Lutalo’s family.
The record is described as the “first chapter” of Lutalo’s journey, a time capsule of their early life experiences, from financial struggles to reflections on their family’s mental health. Tracks like “Summit Hill” and “Oh Well” illustrate these personal stories, while the closing song, “The Bed,” critiques America’s war-driven policies with a vibrant, folk-infused sound.
Overall, The Academy is an intricate and stirring debut, positioning Lutalo as an essential new voice in indie music. Fans of artists like King Krule, TV On The Radio, and Bon Iver will find much to appreciate in this bold and introspective album.
Rating 9/10 – EXCELLENT Album