🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: BLACK COUNTRY GOTHIC
Track 2: I MOCK JOGGERS
Track 3: DESPERATE BREAKFAST
Track 4: SHITHOUSE
Track 5: THIS HERE AIN’T WATER
Track 6: MY SHAPE (BLOCKING THE LIGHT)
Track 7: BLACK DOG/WHITE HORSE
Track 8: BROADCAST: TIME AWAY
Track 9: iLL.
Track 10: MONGREL
🎸 Album Review:
Big Special’s latest album, ‘Postindustrial Hometown Blues’, is a raw and introspective journey through the darkness and decay of modern society. The band, known for their gritty and unapologetic approach to music, delivers a powerful collection of tracks that explore themes of isolation, disillusionment, and longing in a postindustrial landscape.
The album kicks off with “BLACK COUNTRY GOTHIC”, a haunting and atmospheric track that sets the tone for what’s to come. The eerie guitar melodies and brooding vocals create a sense of foreboding, drawing listeners into Big Special’s world of desolation and despair. This track serves as a perfect introduction to the album’s overarching themes of urban decay and existential angst.
“I MOCK JOGGERS” follows with its pulsating rhythm and distorted guitars, showcasing the band’s signature blend of post-punk and industrial influences. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world in chaos, where even the most mundane activities are tinged with a sense of unease. This track stands out for its infectious energy and relentless drive, making it a highlight of the album.
As the album progresses, tracks like “DESPERATE BREAKFAST” and “SHITHOUSE” delve deeper into the darker corners of the human experience. The former is a slow-burning ballad that laments lost opportunities and broken dreams, while the latter is a visceral and unapologetic exploration of decay and destruction. Big Special’s ability to balance vulnerability and aggression is on full display in these tracks, showcasing their versatility as artists.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “THIS HERE AIN’T WATER”, a poignant and emotionally charged ballad that showcases the band’s softer side. The stripped-down instrumentation and vulnerable vocals create a sense of intimacy and longing, drawing listeners in with its raw emotion. This track serves as a powerful reminder of Big Special’s ability to connect with their audience on a deeper level.
Another highlight is “MY SHAPE (BLOCKING THE LIGHT)”, a hypnotic and brooding track that builds to a cathartic climax. The swirling guitars and propulsive drums create a sense of urgency and tension, capturing the listener’s attention from start to finish. This track exemplifies Big Special’s skill at creating dynamic and engaging musical landscapes that leave a lasting impact.
Throughout ‘Postindustrial Hometown Blues’, Big Special maintains a sense of cohesion and consistency that sets it apart from their previous albums. While their earlier work often leaned more towards aggression and noise, this album shows a more nuanced and introspective side of the band. The production is cleaner and more polished, allowing the band’s intricate instrumentation and emotive vocals to shine through.
In comparison to their previous albums, ‘Postindustrial Hometown Blues’ marks a significant evolution in Big Special’s sound and songwriting. The band has matured both lyrically and musically, exploring new sonic territories while staying true to their roots. This album feels like a natural progression for the band, showcasing their growth and evolution as artists.
Overall, ‘Postindustrial Hometown Blues’ is a powerful and emotionally resonant album that solidifies Big Special’s place in the music landscape. With its haunting melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, and dynamic performances, this album is a testament to the band’s creativity and vision. It’s a gripping and immersive listening experience that leaves a lasting impression, making it a must-listen for fans of alternative and post-punk music. Big Special has once again proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, and ‘Postindustrial Hometown Blues’ is a testament to their talent and artistry.