By Patty G.

Let me start by saying this: I hate writing reviews. So, this isn’t one. Think of it more as a “hey, you should absolutely listen to this album” kind of thing. After all, Lesser Care’s Underneath, Beside Me came out in 2022 — back when Dirt City didn’t even exist — so calling this a proper review feels a little review-y and that simply will not do.

So why are we writing about it now? Because it’s so damn good.

Lesser Care followed it up with 2024’s Heel Turn, which is also worth your time, but we like to start from the beginning (yes, yes, we know about their 2020 EP True Burden and 2021’s Palm/Acquired Taste — LPs only, please and thank you).

If Dirt City had been around in 2022, we would’ve written about Underneath, Beside Me and probably used words like “atmospheric” a lot. We might’ve pointed out how it subtly nods to the darker, synth-tinged edges of ’80s New Wave while still sounding completely present and alive. But since this is not a review, I’ll just tell you that this album works whether you’re trying to chill out or psych yourself up.

And since this is definitely not a review, I’ll also admit that I’ve played this album while getting ready for work, on the drive to work, at work, on the drive home, and again to help me fall asleep. It echoes in your mind with a bittersweet intensity — the kind of record that quietly embeds itself into your daily routine before you realize what it’s done.

According to their à La Carte Records bio, Lesser Care is “known for their gloomy sound and energetic, emotional songwriting.” Formed in 2019, the band consists of vocalist, guitarist and synth player Andres Chavez, bassist Angel Yglecias, and drummer Zane Pacillas.  And not-review or not, it feels important to say this plainly: Lesser Care is one of El Paso’s best bands, crafting emotionally heavy post-punk and New Wave sounds that linger long after the record stops spinning.

If you somehow missed Underneath, Beside Me when it first came out, now’s the time to fix that. Some albums age well; this one just waits patiently for you to catch up.

For Your Listening/Viewing Pleasure

Lesser Care Bandcamp: https://lessercare.bandcamp.com/