Four albums into their journey, Reading's own The Amazons appear to have discovered their true sound. After their eye-catching self-titled debut and impactful sophomore release 'Future Dust', their latest project required some shifts in their approach. Written by frontman Matt Thomson during the lockdown, the third album 'How Will I Know If Heaven Will Find Me?' felt more mature and slightly calmer, enabling the band to achieve their first Top 5 Album position in the UK Charts. Despite the success of this third record, the goal for Album No.4 was clear – to apply what they learned and create a record that feels almost the opposite of its predecessor; not in sound, but in spirit.
In the production of '21st Century Fiction', various factors distinguish it from the previous album. Most notably, this is the band’s first project as a trio, following the departure of founding member and drummer Joe Emmett. Fans may also notice the return of producer Catherine Marks, who collaborated with the band on their first two albums, now working alongside renowned producer/engineer Peter Hutchings (Foals, Gang of Youths).
Despite these clear lineup changes, the most significant difference lies in the creative approach. This time, the trio opted for a more exhilarating, no-holds-barred style rather than the gentler tone of 'How Will I Know…', dedicating over a year to developing the album and honing the songs before stepping into the studio. With the restrictions from the pandemic now lifted, the band embraced collaboration, bringing in singer-songwriter and label mate Ella McRobb to add a fresh dynamic to their sound. The outcome? The Amazons’ most ambitious, accomplished, and finest album to date.
Lead single 'Living A Lie' serves as an outstanding introduction, beginning with a symphonic overture that features McRobb's voice for the first time, before erupting into powerful industrial guitars and driving drums. It introduces a key theme of the album: the quest for truth – whether in oneself, in relationships, or within a chaotic and misinformation-laden society.
'Night After Night' maintains the opener's sense of urgency, with alarming, siren-like guitars and Thomson’s frantic cries of “Keep the fever on until I come undone.” Following a brief acapella section, we are greeted with the warm, smoky guitars of the standout single, 'Pitch Black'. Chris Alderton shines here, delivering a breathtaking solo that highlights his status as one of the best lead guitarists around today.
Next is 'My Blood', produced by Royal Blood, a cinematic tribute to perseverance featuring a chorus melody reminiscent of Survivor’s 'Burning Heart' from the Rocky IV soundtrack. Ben Thatcher’s drumming is flawless, enhanced by some brass elements and more blistering guitar work from Alderton. 'Wake Me Up' starts with hints of classic Oasis before transforming into strutting riffs and stunning guitar segments.
The 'Intermission' serves as an orchestral break, providing a moment of respite midway through, before the band unleashes their intensity once more on 'Joe Bought A Gun'. This track addresses the pattern of violence in American society, opening with a tense, ominous vibe as Thomson whispers the initial lines. It quickly escalates into heavy, gritty riffs, seamlessly transitioning into the bluegrass and desert-inspired chords of 'Love Is A Dog From Hell'. The band surely showcases their eclectic rock ‘n’ roll style.
We then hear McRobb’s voice crackling over a radio transmission as we enter 'The Heat'. True to its fiery title, the chorus of “I can’t take one more degree!” is practically made for shouting in sunlit festival fields. Following the dramatic and hopeful 'Heaven Now', we conclude with the perfect finale in the piano-driven, mini-epic 'Go All The Way'. Building to an impassioned peak anchored by Thomson’s most powerful vocal performance yet, it stands out as one of the most meticulously crafted songs of the band's career.
With '21st Century Fiction', The Amazons have harnessed the best elements from their previous albums to create the record they have always aimed for. A whirlwind of polished, expansive anthems, it’s an exhilarating ride that invites repeated listens. They have finally evolved from promising newcomers into one of the finest pure rock bands today, demonstrating that reviving rock ‘n’ roll doesn’t require nostalgia or band reunions. And we assure you that this is not fiction – it's a fact.
8/10
Words: Karl Blakesley
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