Finally had time to sit and listen to this record with intent. Here are my first impressions.
-Unlike gaf, I was 0% into the opening track.
-There are lots of cool melodies here, along with some interesting rhythms and cadences. Sean on drums sounds especially strong.
-JDB’s voice has not lost a single iota of its power and brilliance over the years. Mostly this record has him singing with a little grit, but there are a few pretty, more delicate moments too.
-I preferred the second half of the record, and the song “Dylan and Caitlin” is where I started to feel like this was an album I could support. It’s a lovely duet, and James’s voice pairs well with that of Catherine Anne Davies. (I know that makes him sound like a wine, but I don’t know how else to say it.)
-It heartens me to hear James’s guitar playing in the foreground of these songs. I wish The Edge would break out a few solos these days, but James fills that void. His guitar work is a highlight here for me.
-The final five tracks are a strong finish.
-Y’all know I love when Nicky sings, and listening to the album the first time through, I’m always waiting...will this song have his voice? To make it to the final track and hear his voice begin to sing...I am a sucker for his vocals every time. I think it’s one of his better performances objectively speaking, and he needs to be the one singing those lyrics.
That’s all from me for now. Hope some of y’all will give it a go too. It’s well worth your time if you’re a Manics fan who’s stuck with them this far.