While offering fans the potential for entertaining hours of exploration, it is crucial that a record with lore—a narrative thread connecting the songs, somewhat less elaborate than a full concept—can stand on its own and still be enjoyable without an understanding of its overall story. The fact that ‘Birthmarks,’ the fifth album from Bambara, features a detailed narrative is not surprising; the literal centerpiece, ‘6,’ delivers a fully cinematic, brooding take on film noir soundtracks. Similarly, the sonic palette ranges from sparkling ‘80s pop synths (‘Face Of Love’) to electronic industrial noise (‘Dive Shrine’), creating a distinctly gritty, back alley atmosphere, even for those unfamiliar with the album's origins (which, we've been told, involve a decades-long saga inspired by Southern Gothic themes). However, without the literary elements being present, there's a somewhat jarring transition as the record shifts between styles; the ominous high-pitched note cutting through the rumbling bass of ‘Holy Bones’ suggests danger but is met with a lackluster chorus. The anger expressed in ‘Letters From Sing Sing’ doesn't reach a resolution or catharsis, while the sorrowful croon in ‘Because You Asked’—think a blend of The National’s Matt Berninger and Nick Cave—can easily be overlooked. Notably, the opener ‘Hiss’—though purely coincidental—strikingly resembles the introduction to Phil Collins’ ‘In The Air Tonight,’ which features in a David Beckham underwear advertisement. Setting aside the barely-clad ex-footballers, having knowledge of the series of characters that weave in and out provides context; without this, much of ‘Birthmarks’ may come off as perplexing and unable to find its rhythm. Essentially, it may not appeal to those who prefer to avoid spoilers.
The album will feature his earlier singles ‘Silverlines’ and ‘Born With A Broken Heart’.
The enjoyment may have ended, but the celebration is only beginning.
Benson Boone embarks on a new phase of his music career with “Sorry I’m Here for Someone Else,” an energetic pop-rock anthem that marks a lively, positive shift after the worldwide success of his debut single, “Beautiful Things.”
Icelandic indie folk artist Arny Margret guides us through her deeply moving second album, ‘I Miss You, I Do,’ exploring each track. This work is intimate, delicate, and ambitiously bold, embracing a broader sound while maintaining its raw emotional essence.
A monumental work of art.
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Perplexing, struggling to establish its rhythm.