Propter Hoc – Dramaturgy (Digital/CD Album – Cold Transmission Music)
When we speak of dramaturgy, we often think of the theatre and the roles actors assume on stage. However, the term can also refer to a sociological phenomenon—still the subject of ongoing research—concerning the roles people adopt and, so to speak, ‘perform’ in their daily interactions and the situations they encounter. Scottish artist A. Harrington has translated this concept into the ten tracks that make up his second official full-length album.
The music remains deeply rooted in the 1980s. New Order emerges as the most obvious point of reference, although I can also detect traces of The Cure in some of the guitar sounds. Overall, however, the sound leans more towards Electro- and Wave-Pop than on previous releases. At times, the songs even take on an unexpectedly bright and uplifting character—and I mean this not as a criticism, but as one of the album’s greatest strengths. Erasure also comes to mind as a possible influence. Despite these melodic touches, the overall sound remains slightly darker, more minimalist, and unmistakably idiosyncratic. There are even moments of playful fun, such as a sequence that unmistakably evokes the legendary Trio resulting in a great song.
Propter Hoc remains faithful to its influences while continuing to evolve its own identity. I thoroughly enjoyed this new release. (Rating:8).
Listen to “Pony Up”:
About Propter Hoc
Propter Hoc is the solo project of Scottish artist A. Harrington, known as John, who began recording during the 2020 pandemic lockdown after early tracks posted online drew a quick, positive response, leading to a deal with Cold Transmission Records. Harrington released his debut album, “Zodiac Carousel,” followed in 2025 by “Seduction and Betrayal” and two additional EPs.
Propter Hoc’s new album, “Dramaturgy,” is his latest full-length release via Cold Transmission Music.
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