Broken Social Scene Returns: “Not Around Anymore” Single Review

Broken Social Scene just pulled it off. Their new single, “Not Around Anymore,” is finally here, and it’s a bit of a curveball. It’s leaner, punchier, and honestly, catchier than anything they’ve put out in years.

The Vibe: Less Chaos, More Hook

If you’re used to BSS tracks that feel like twenty people playing in a garage at once (in the best way possible), “Not Around Anymore” might surprise you. It’s got that classic “wall of sound” depth, but it’s channeled into a genuine pop structure.

• The Energy: It’s got this driving, propulsive beat that feels like a late-night drive through Toronto.

• The Lyrics: It’s that classic BSS brand of bittersweet—singing about the people and versions of ourselves we’ve left behind. It’s nostalgic, but it doesn’t feel stuck in the past.

• The Vocals: The harmonies are still there, but they feel more intentional. It’s less of a shout and more of a melody you’ll actually be humming by the second chorus.

Why It Works

It’s rare for a band that’s been around for over 20 years to find a “middle ground” that works. Usually, they either try too hard to sound like their 2002 selves or pivot so hard into a new genre that they lose their soul.

“Not Around Anymore” hits the sweet spot. It sounds like a band that has finally grown comfortable in its own skin. It’s polished, sure, but it still has those weird, fuzzy edges that make it a Broken Social Scene song.

The Verdict: It’s a track for the fans who grew up with them, but it’s accessible enough to end up on a “Best New Indie” playlist for someone who has never heard You Forgot It in People.

Give it a Spin

The track is out everywhere now. If you’ve been feeling like indie rock has gotten a little too predictable lately, this is the palette cleanser you need. It’s messy, beautiful, and very, very loud.