"Boston Manor was able to incorporate their previous work with new ideas for 'GLUE' and their success shines through."
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Must Listen
Today, Blackpool, England-based band Boston Manor have released their new album GLUE via Pure Noise Records. This album explores new territories not only with its sound but also with its lyrical content. Henry Cox (vocalist), Michael Cunniff (guitar), Ash Wilson (guitar), Dan Cunniff (bass), and Jordan Pugh (drums) have created an exploratory album that touches on valuable topics such as male suicide, humanity, the music industry and more. The 13-track record also features John Floreani of Trophy Eyes on the previously released track “Liquid.”
The album opens with static-like sounds that instantly draw listeners into GLUE. The sounds stop unexpectedly for a moment and then, almost startling, fast-paced music fills the ears and suddenly “Everything Is Ordinary” is in full swing. With the instruments rapidly playing, the song’s beat feel like someone is running away from something. This fits in with the first lyrics vocalist Cox sings, “run, run away.” The feeling of running continues as the suspenseful music is played throughout the song. “I’ll spill my guts” begins the second verse followed by “don’t leave now, we’re getting started.” It is as if a confrontation between two individuals is about to happen and despite the anxiety and anticipation of it, neither want it to be stopped.
“Plasticine Dreams” is track three on the album. Listening to the song feels like being on a rollercoaster that is going up – the music is exciting, but there is still a level of anticipation as listeners awaits to hear what is going to happen next. As Cox sings “you’re a star, you’re the one,” it is evidently clear that is alternative pop track may have traces of entertainment industry influence. In the song’s music video, Boston Manor show things such as art being posted everywhere and everyone viewing it as unimportant. This particular song, with its alt-pop sound, may make people think of the industry’s popular culture, but what Boston Manor did was add their own style to make the song their own.
One of the stand out moments on the record is “Stuck In The Mud,” a song that makes whoever is listening feel closer to the band as the vulnerable lyrics are sung. A piano begins the track then Cox joins in with his vocals. With intensity in his voice, Cox sings “I don’t know what to do,” and later “I’m calling out to you.” The vulnerable influence of the song shows a different side to the band that we haven’t seen before. Listeners will be able to relate to this song in a number of ways especially as Cox sings the line, “just tell me everything is gonna be okay.”
The album ends with “Monolith,” one of the heavier songs in Boston Manor’s discography. As a call to action, this closing track is all about doing what you want in life and not letting anyone get in the way. It will surely be a stand out performance if Boston Manor decide to include it in future set lists. The song comes to a steady close, led by a piano and Cox singing quietly. As it comes to a end in complete silence, it leaves listeners wanting more and wondering where the band’s music could go on future albums.
With the different rhythmic energies and innovative new ideas, fans and even first-time listeners will be satisfied with this third LP from the UK five piece. Boston Manor were able to incorporate their previous work with new ideas for GLUE and their success shines through.
