The fourth edition from Melbourne-based The Murlocs was hotly anticipated by those who’ve entered into the bizarre yet rewarding world of the Australian psychedelic scene. Having been on a mini-hiatus since late 2017, due to members of the band having other commitments, this latest creation, Manic Candid Episode, certainly hasn’t disappointed and is a fantastic and pleasing welcome back.
After completing a bumper European tour at the end of February, the next step for Ambrose Kenny-Smith and co was the release of this album which the band laboured over for a long time over Summer 2017 and as a result, an advanced musical evolution is evident with clear improvements since their humble beginnings in 2014.
Each track of this new album is filled with astute lyrics and catchy instrumentals, especially that of the title track, Problematic Subject and Withstand especially with their prominent harmonica, typical of Kenny-Smith’s musicianship. The Murlocs’ overall style can make anyone begin to move just through its pace and energy which has always been a feature of their albums.
Comfort Zone, despite slowing the tempo down slightly, are still a superb edition to the mix with its grand piano sounds mixed in with whirling keyboards and powerful vocals expressing how everyone goes through the same old stuff no matter who you may be. Having been released first as a single, it brings a nice contrast to the rest of the upbeat album but is still worked in beautifully well. Similarly, with Samsara Maya, the listener is allowed to catch their breath whilst still being treated to a husky story being told. One of the main attraction being the sheer power of Kenny-Smith’s vocals which have improved album after album and it especially shows here.
Having teased some of the new songs including Catch 22 and Bigger Picture on the latest tour, it is fantastic to finally hear the album pieced together. Buffoon, My Compromise and Spun Gun in particular are reminiscent of Old Locomotive but pack more of a punch instrumentally and lyrically. Also, What If? with its main guitar riff is a particular example of this with new effects being utilised creating a really hard-hitting but rhythmic strike to the listener.
The overall musical ability is very striking with this particular album. The basslines are more complex, the drums have become elaborate and the extra guitars played by both Kenny-Smith and keyboard player Tim Karmouche really help to make the sound purer and driving. Another feature which has really exemplified the evolution is backing vocals which is a feature that hasn’t been as prevalent on previous albums but has definitely added the missing ingredient to this album.
With each band member having different projects to participate in, the next Murlocs tour of Europe may not be for a while but they a thorough recommendation especially if their music continues to travel in the direction it is doing currently.
Listen to Manic Candid Episode here
Review by Charlie Bristow
Music is not only a hobby but it is also a remedy for various health Issues. If you want to learn music, go for it.
ReplyDeleteMusic School In Delhi
Guitar classes in south delhiIn Delhi