Bankrupt!

"Bankrupt!" is the fifth studio album by the French indie pop band Phoenix. It was released on April 19, 2013. Following their critically acclaimed album "Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix," the band took a new direction with "Bankrupt!" incorporating more diverse, layered, and lush sounds.

The album features a more synth-driven, experimental sound compared to their previous work, with hints of 1980s pop influences. The production includes more electronic elements and complex arrangements, highlighting the band's evolution in their musical style. Thomas Mars's distinctive vocals remain a central element, delivering catchy and introspective lyrics.

"Bankrupt!" was recorded in various locations, including the United States, France, and Australia, during an extensive recording process. The band intended to capture an "exotic" and "colorful" aesthetic in both the music and album art. The album cover, featuring a close-up image of a peach, reflects this vibrant and bold approach.

The lead single from "Bankrupt!" is "Entertainment," a track that opens the album with energetic beats and shimmering synths, setting the tone for the rest of the project. Other notable tracks include "Trying to Be Cool" and "S.O.S. in Bel Air," all of which share a theme of introspection and a search for authenticity amid the chaos of modern life.

Critics praised "Bankrupt!" for its innovative sound and cohesive production, solidifying Phoenix's reputation as a band capable of reinventing themselves while maintaining their signature style. The album performed well commercially and garnered several award nominations.