Itef - Character Assassination

Itef

Character Assassination
self-released; 2025

By Matt Jensen

​Itef’s latest album, Character Assassination, sprawls across seventeen tracks, sitting somewhere between rock, pop, and singer-songwriter terrain. It’s an ambitious record—sometimes intimate, sometimes theatrical, always intent on delivering sharp melodies and emotional weight.  

The title track, “Character Assassination,” sets the tone with a mix of melancholy and quiet resilience, its hook was quite catchy and stayed with me. “Spark of Joy” follows, an acoustic-driven piece laced with bells and a lush, inviting atmosphere. There’s a warmth to its arrangement, and the vocal performance carries a sincerity that elevates it beyond standard folk-pop fare.  

One of the album’s most infectious moments comes with “Charlie, The Plastic Boy!”—a song that bursts with playful energy, a sharp melodic hook, and a guest vocalist who adds a welcome contrast. The album’s tonal shifts keep things fresh: “Prince of Wales” drapes its funk-inflected groove in rich instrumentation, while “Cold Blue Christmas” is ironically warm and inviting. “Heart-Shaped Diamond” leans into Americana, at times brushing against Tom Petty’s easygoing spirit.  

Further in, “Silver Lining” stands out as a clear high point, its harmonies brimming with a sense of unshakable optimism. “Rain Check” follows with a quieter beauty, offering a reflective pause before the album’s strongest moment: “Snow Angel.” The interplay between vocals and banjo gives it a rustic, cinematic feel, and the guest feature only strengthens its impact. “Love Song” closes things out on a similarly high note, rounding out a tracklist full of peaks and unexpected textures.  

At its best, Character Assassination thrives on variety, balancing its pop instincts with depth and nuance. It’s an album of thoughtful lyrics, dynamic performances, and carefully considered production—a long listen, but one that rewards the time spent.

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