Music Review: Squid’s ‘Cowards’ Album – Analysis by When The Horn Blows

Squid, a five-piece band from Brighton, has evolved significantly since their inception in 2016. Originally playing instrumental jazz, their unique blend of broody, angular British tropes mixed with Fourth World art-rock arrangements has captivated audiences worldwide. Albums like Bright Green Field and O Monolith showcased their experimental jazzy avant-garde style, tethered to their original sound, paving the way for their latest project, Cowards.

With a focus on human evil and wrongdoing, Cowards marks a departure for Squid, delving into folk, psychedelia, jazz, and electronics, crafting sounds that defy categorization. Drifting between tribal and ethereal tones, the album showcases unsettling crescendos giving way to discrete melodies, showcasing a bold, unorthodox soundscape.

Comprised of nine stories exploring themes of apathy, moral cowardice, and cults, Cowards offers a nuanced take on morality. Tracks like “Crispy Skin” explore darker subjects like cannibalism against seemingly uplifting melodies, challenging the listener’s perception of good and evil. “Building 650” touches on loneliness while exploring foreign, unfamiliar surroundings, drawing inspiration from the band’s experience in Japan.

Tracks like “Fieldworks” and the self-titled seventh song exude haunting beauty and mourning, reminiscent of Radiohead’s emotive rock. “Showtime!” and “Blood on the Boulders” bring psychedelic textures and dramatic noise rock elements to the forefront, showcasing Squid’s versatility and willingness to experiment.

To complement their dynamic sound, Squid enlisted the help of collaborators like Clarissa Connelly, Tony Njoku, Rosa Brook, Zands Duggan, and the Ruisi Quartet, elevating their compositions to new heights. Each artist brings a unique perspective, enriching the sonic landscape of Cowards and adding layers of complexity to the album.

From their debut EP “Town Centre” to the ambitious “Cowards,” Squid has continually pushed the boundaries of experimentation. Each album feels like a revelation for the band, showcasing their storytelling prowess and musical wizardry. With Cowards, Squid cements their status as more than mere experimentalists, crafting a compelling narrative around themes of human nature and evil. The album is a testament to their growth and evolving artistry, setting a new standard for avant-garde music.