Friend Opportunity

Released in 2007, Friend Opportunity marks a pivotal moment in Deerhoof's discography, transitioning from their noise-rock roots toward a more polished, avant-pop sensibility. Following the departure of guitarist Chris Cohen, the band recorded as a trio, resulting in a leaner but more intricate sound. The album is characterized by its 'asymmetric pop' - songs like '+ 81' and 'The Perfect Me' feature infectious melodies that are constantly interrupted by complex time signatures and explosive percussion. The record is also notable for its closing track, 'Look Away,' a nearly 12-minute epic that moves from a soul-inflected ballad into an extended ambient soundscape, a significant departure from their typical short-form song structures. Critically, it was hailed as one of their most accessible yet uncompromising works, solidifying their status as leaders of the 2000s indie-experimental scene.