A few months ago, Emily Haines announced the upcoming release of Metric’s fifth album, “Synthetica,” through a letter to fans. Besides reminiscing about when times were simpler without the presence of technology and strict rules for making it big, Haines clearly defined the framework and parameters of the new album.

“‘Fantasies’ was all about pushing ourselves out into the world, going to unknown places and shaking off everything familiar,” she wrote. “‘Synthetica’ is about staying home and wanting to crawl out of your skin from the lack of external stimulation. ‘Synthetica’ is about forcing yourself to confront what you see in the mirror when you finally stand still long enough to catch a reflection. ‘Synthetica’ is about being able to identify the original in a long line of reproductions. It’s about what is real vs. what is artificial.”

It would be almost too easy to pin this as a lament for yesteryear and all of its straightforward glory – but not when Metric is known for masterfully spinning out coliseum sized synth indie pop with a darker, intelligent edge. Instead, the album is a demonstration of just how far the band has come in the last 10 plus years in their art and their profession.

With that in mind, the album uses opener “Artificial Nocturne” to set the tone with its open lyrics, while weaving in fluttering synths and cryptic organs. Hit single “Youth Without Youth” artfully bends and distorts all sound except Haines ethereal voice and pulsating drums. Despite the album’s overwhelming showcase of synth-pop, Metric does offer some contrast.  “Lost Kitten” uses Haines’ candied vocal offerings and dark lyrics to give some balance. On “Clone,” Haines kicks down her walls with her vulnerable verses and fluid guitar.

Over the years, Metric has delved into their unique sound and produced music that has become iconic. “Synthetica” is just another example of how they continually grow as a band while staying true to their style and sound.