Scouting for Girls Shine with “These Are the Good Days” Album Review
Scouting for Girls released their eighth long-player, These Are the Good Days, on 27 March 2026. The band first broke through with a 2007 self-titled debut and hits like “She’s So Lovely” and “Elvis Isn’t Dead”.
Background
Roy Stride leads on vocals and songwriting for the group. Connor McDonald supplies much of the guitar work and instrumental texture.
Filmogaz.com examined the new record to see if the band can still shine. This Album Review weighs that question against the material and performances.
Musical direction and performance
The album leans toward a softer, poppier sound than earlier indie records. That shift creates a mellow, highly produced atmosphere across many tracks.
Vocals vary in tone and approach from song to song. McDonald’s guitar often provides the most consistent musical interest.
Track-by-track impressions
- “These Are the Good Days” opens with piano, easy guitar and relaxed vocals. It plays like a soft indie-pop ballad.
- “Get What You Give” raises the tempo and embraces pop brightness. The arrangement feels repetitive at times.
- “Waiting For You Love” begins with a repetitive vocal hook and a small guitar riff. Lowered vocals for the verses do not suit the song.
- “Stars Never Fade” aims for anthemic clarity but lands as a timid, show-tune style performance. Guitar work remains a saving element.
- “Don’t Go Solo” adopts a twangy vocal style that feels mismatched to the band’s strengths. The track reads like soundtrack filler.
- “As Bad As You Are Beautiful” trades on upbeat percussion and simple melodies. It leans toward manufactured pop rather than creative risk.
- “Love Gone Bad” recalls mid-2010s love-song conventions. It repeats familiar pop phrasing without distinct hooks.
- “Counting Down The Days” is a slow ballad with modest guitar ideas. The song lacks dynamic lift and memorable moments.
- “Still Feel The Love” highlights McDonald’s guitar work amid otherwise bland production. It provides the album’s clearest instrumental focus.
- “Alright In The End” attempts to recapture early group energy. It finishes with a brief guitar flourish that feels misapplied.
Verdict
The record often sounds overly produced and low on risk. Longtime fans seeking the band’s early indie spark may feel disappointed.
Connor McDonald’s playing brings value, but it cannot fully rescue the material. Filmogaz.com views the album as a subdued statement rather than a triumphant return.
