Released at the end of October, the name Sainthood is taken from the title track of the Quin Sisters’ sixth full-length album. This recording also marks an important first for Tegan and Sara, as it’s the first time that the duo has ever written together. As sisters, they’ve always been rivals, but with this album they’ve forced themselves to sit in a room and write. The results are, to say the least, mixed.

Tegan and Sara have always had a knack for exploring various arrangements and instrumentation in their music, and this album is no exception. For example, one song called “Alligator” does not feature any guitars at all. But if you are already a fan of this sister act, you should know that this album is fairly different from its predecessors.

Sainthood is much heavier and quicker, while their other five released were more on the soft and melodic side. I found these lyrics to be far less hook-rich, and yet not nearly as relaxing as the others. In other words, this album is more likely to make you want to get up and dance rather than bum out and hum along. Though admittedly, I did find myself humming once or twice. If you’re a fan, Sainthood is worth checking out, if for no other reason than to see a slightly different side of this newly collaborative duo.

Track Listing:

1. Arrow
2. Don’t Rush
3. Hell
4. On Directing
5. Red Belt
6. The Cure
7. Northshore
8. Night Watch
9. Alligator
10. Paperback Head
11. Sentimental Tune
12. Someday