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Robbie Daw | June 28, 2013 5:20 am

Tegan And Sara, Heartthrob Released: January 29

After six albums and more than a decade of indie-darling status, Tegan And Sara decided it was time for a change. For Heartthrob, the Canadian twins decided to embrace pop music and try for a more commercial sound. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Sara admitted the duo wanted to sell more records and play in bigger venues — putting the new direction down to turning 30. It was a bold move, but under the watchful gaze of producer Greg Kurstin, Tegan And Sara make the transition to synth-pop sirens seamlessly and seemingly organically.

While the sisters work with a different sound palette on Heartthrob, their core of sensibilities — gorgeous harmonies, poignant lyrics and emotional honesty — remain unchanged. Beneath the ‘80s synths and booming chorus, “I Was A Fool” is a sad confession of unrequited love that would slot into any of their previous albums. The same goes for “How Come You Don’t Want Me,” which seethes with anger and frustration under its intoxicating Icona Pop meets She’s So Unusual-era Cyndi Lauper exterior. There’s not a bad song on Heartthrob but other stand-outs include dazzling lead single “Closer,” Roxette-tastic “I Couldn’t Be Your Friend” and unexpectedly poignant “Shock To Your System.” — MIKE WASS