Alt-Rock
earMusic
Release Date – January 26th 2024
Line Up:
Justin Sullivan – Vocals/Guitar
Dean White – Guitar/Keyboards
Ceri Monger – Bass
Michael Dean – Drums
Tracklist:
1 – First Summer After
2 – Language
3 – Reload
4 – I Did Nothing Wrong
5 – Cold Wind
6 – Coming Or Going
7 – If I Am Still Me
8 – Legend
9 – Do You Really Want Me To Go There
10 – Idumea
11 – Deserters
My exposure to New Model Army has been a tantalizingly brief affair, and admittedly, their overtly political stance has kept me at arm’s length. However, diving into their latest offering has been a revelation. With a four-decade legacy, the only enduring force has been the enigmatic singer/guitarist, Justin Sullivan. His prowess as a songwriter is nothing short of remarkable, accompanied by vocal delivery and melodies that echo the raw energy of a young Tom Robinson and a touch of Ian McNabb.
The sonic journey kicks off with the opening track, ‘First Summer After,’ where the band seamlessly weaves electric and acoustic guitar lines into a punchy Celtic alt-rock groove. ‘Language’ follows, infusing a blend of ’90s Britpop and funk, creating an infectious rhythm that captivates. ‘Reload’ takes a bold leap into spiky territories, with Ceri Monger’s bass driving the pulse.
‘I Did Nothing Wrong’ showcases Monger’s bass prowess, initially laid bare on the largely acoustic canvas, only to explode into a chorus that demands an airborne fist pump. The brooding ‘Cold Wind’ envelops the listener in a darker melancholy, courtesy of acoustic chords and subtle synths, paving the way for the biting new wave punk of ‘Coming Or Going.’
‘Tribal rhythms and synths collide in ‘If I Am Still Me,’ channeling an Adam and the Ants vibe, yet steering clear of happy-clappy pop. ‘Legend’ erupts with sirens wailing and angular guitar lines, as Michael Dean pounds out a rhythm on his tom-toms, backed by Monger’s melodic bass from the early ’80s, climaxing in a powerful chorus.
The edgy punky guitar intro of ‘Do You Really Want To Go There’ thrusts the listener into a high-octane race, settling back on Monger’s steady bass line with finesse. ‘Idumea’ unfolds stark and bare, Sullivan’s acoustic gradually joined by a haunting piano and a Celtic rhythm, crafting an introspective journey through the corridors of the mind.
Monger’s thunderous bass leads the charge in the final cut, ‘Deserters,’ injecting it with an irresistible oomph that concludes this musical odyssey on a high note.
Unsure of what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised. This album traverses folk, new wave, punk, and alternative waves with righteous fluidity. It bites, it cuts, it prompts introspection, and then sparks a rebellious flame. Music should evoke emotions, and this masterpiece by New Model Army certainly achieves that with gusto.
Written by: Smudge
Ratings: 8/10
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