Coventry-based trio The Enemy made their long-awaited return this February with their punchy new album, Social Disguises. Released on the 20th of February, the album is the first feature-length from the group since It’s Automatic, which was released back in October 2015. The group announced a temporary split in 2016, a year on from this release, and reformed for a UK tour in late 2022. What could have been a short-lived reconciliation instead has laid the groundwork for something far more considered.
On the album’s creation, frontman Tom Clarke states,
“It took a year to write, around 90 demos, and another year in the studio. I’m very proud of it. We all are. Whatever success it does or doesn’t enjoy, I feel like we all succeeded in making a great record we can be proud of forever.”
The extended creative process is apparent throughout Social Disguises, proving that the album’s creation has not been rushed but instead is deliberately structured. The time invested by the band has paid off in an album that is assertive in both its message and its sound.
Three tracks were released ahead of the rest of the album – ‘The Boxer’, ‘Trouble’, and arguably the hardest-hitting of the three, ‘Not Going Your Way’. The latter stands out for its directness – self-assured and punchy, this track delves into the clarity of choosing solitude over a relationship that no longer serves you. Despite capturing a negative emotion, however, the lyrics centre on self-worth and clarity rather than dwelling on regret, reinforced by a confident instrumental build-up and driving guitars. ‘Not Going Your Way’ is one of those tracks that is designed to be shouted back to the band at a live concert, and firmly establishes that The Enemy continue to retain their edge.
Beyond these pre-released singles, Social Disguises continues to show personality and confidence. Towards the end of the album, ‘Pretty Face’ introduces a vibrant tonal shift. It feels playful without straying away from the band’s edge, and places a lighter energy between more emotionally charged tracks. While The Enemy are at their strongest when they lean into confrontation and grit, ‘Pretty Face’ proves that they can balance that charged intensity with something much more carefree – it broadens the album’s scope, and prevents it from sounding overly heavy.
The album’s title track, ‘Social Disguises’, is one of the most intimate moments on the album. Contemplative in its lyrics, it explores the facades people put up in their daily lives and the complexities of becoming comfortable with one’s identity. Clarke sings about beginning to do things to please himself rather than others, and eliminating his own ‘social disguise’. This track feels genuine and not performative by any means, but simultaneously remains catchy and easy to sing along to – a strength that has always defined the band’s sound. The combination of intimate sincerity and infectiousness solidifies ‘Social Disguises’ as one of the most effective tracks on the album.
A hopeful resolution comes in the form of ‘Finish Line’, the album’s closing track. It carries the essence of an end-of-a-film moment – optimistic, but still clear that lessons have been learned and mistakes have previously been made. Rather than closing on a valiant, defiant track, ‘Finish Line’ allows the album to conclude naturally, leaving behind a satisfying, effective final impression.
Overall, Social Disguises succeeds because it blends the trademark punchiness that the band are known for with moments of playfulness and reflection. The album moves smoothly, from the assured drive of tracks like ‘Not Going Your Way’ to the more vibrant, exciting energy of ‘Pretty Face’, proving that the band can still write hooks that stick whilst exploring personal, hard-hitting themes. The title track further reinforces this balance, pairing introspective sincerity with an infectious chorus. The album has been noted by critics for managing to feel both familiar and fresh, retaining the band’s bold, direct energy while layering in melodic nuance and variety. When all of these aspects are combined, it is clear that Social Disguises is a confident return that blends the band’s signature bite with new textures.