In a year packed with great indie rock releases, English Teacher’s debut album, This Could Be Texas, still manages to stand out. Released on April 12th, 2024, by Island Records, this U.K.-based band blends post-punk, indie, and rock into something uniquely their own.
Produced by Marta Salogni—known for her work with artists like Björk, Bon Iver, and Depeche Mode—the album is infused with her signature mix of experimental, atmospheric sounds. Salogni’s touch perfectly complements the band’s instrumental work. Lewis Whiting’s guitar is clean yet intricate, especially on tracks like “Nearly Daffodils,” while Nicholas Eden’s bass lines lay down a solid groove, shining brightest on “I’m Not Crying, You’re Crying.” Douglas Frost’s drumming and piano work add a vibrant, energetic layer to the album.
While the production and instrumentals are impressive, Lily Fontaine’s vocals and songwriting truly define this record. Her range and versatility are on full display as she shifts from the sharp, biting critiques in “R&B” to the hypnotic, experimental tones of “The Best Tears of Your Life.”
On “Mastermind Specialism,” her voice takes on a poetic, almost ethereal quality, while “You Blister My Paint” reveals a softer, more vulnerable side. Fontaine’s ability to tailor her vocals to the mood and message of each track creates a dynamic, immersive listening experience. Her lyrics delve into themes of identity, social issues, and personal growth, often with a touch of humor.
One track that stands out for its lyrical depth is the album closer, “Albert Road.” Fontaine reflects on her experience growing up mixed-race, delivering lines like, “Don’t take their prejudice to heart. They hate everyone. The world around them never showed how loving can be fun,” and “I’ve got a war of roses for a head. I am the stem, and I am the thorn.”
These lyrics capture the feeling of not fitting in and being caught between different worlds. The instrumentation starts stripped back, with a delicate guitar leading the way. Just when you think the song can’t get any more intense, subtle brass and synths sneak in, building up to a grand finish where Fontaine’s voice hits a stunning high note. It’s a moment that feels like a release for her and us as listeners.
This Could Be Texas is one of those special albums that makes you reconsider your favorite track with every listen. Each song pulls you into its own world, making it hard to settle on just one. In a time when indie rock can sometimes feel formulaic, this debut is a breath of fresh air, showing just how much potential the genre still has for innovation and emotional depth. It promises big things for English Teacher’s future and deserves a spot on your playlist.
Check out This Could Be Texas by English Teacher on Bandcamp here.
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This review was written by Charlotte Woska. Charlotte is a recent college graduate with a passion for music and writing. While new to the world of reviews, her love for music has been a lifelong journey. Through her work, she aims to shine a light on emerging artists and convey the impact music can have.
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