Black Country, New Road Deliver Timeless Review: Alt-Rockers Return with Fresh Sound
Black Country, New Road released their last studio album in 2022, which left a peculiar impression on listeners. Their debut album the previous year had soared to No. 4 on the UK charts, marking a significant breakthrough for the UK septet as they carved a name for themselves in the realm of alternative rock. However, a sense of nostalgia surrounded the release of their second album, “Ants from Up There,” as it came amidst the departure of their frontman, Isaac Wood, just four days earlier. Despite concerns about the band’s future without Wood’s distinctive vocals, they forged ahead with determination to continue their musical journey.
Rather than dwelling on the past, Black Country, New Road embarked on a new chapter. They made a conscious decision not to include any Wood-fronted songs in their live performances and instead focused on creating entirely new music. This shift was evident in their live album recorded at London’s Bush Hall in December 2022, where they reflected on their past achievements while also embracing the unknown path that lay ahead.
Their latest album, “Forever Howlong,” showcases the band’s resilience and creativity in the face of change. While some signature Black Country, New Road elements are still present, such as hypnotic string and woodwind arrangements reminiscent of Steve Reich, the overall sound has evolved towards a more serene and pastoral direction. The album features a variety of instruments, including piano, acoustic guitar, banjo, mandolin, and recorders played en masse by the band members, evoking a sense of childlike wonder.
With Wood’s departure, the band’s vocal duties are now shared by Tyler Hyde, Georgia Ellery, and May Kershaw. Their harmonies on tracks like “Mary” bring to mind the harmonious sounds of the Roches, albeit with a distinctly British twist. The album’s eclectic mix of stop-start rhythms, tempo changes, and whimsical lyrics draws inspiration from the prog rock of the “Canterbury scene,” incorporating elements of jazz and playfulness into their music.
“Forever Howlong” showcases Black Country, New Road’s departure from mainstream musical trends, embracing a unique blend of winsome imagery and darker themes. Tracks like “Salem Sisters” and “Two Horses” juxtapose seemingly innocent narratives with chilling twists, challenging listeners to explore the depths of their storytelling. Despite moments of whimsical eccentricity, the album strikes a delicate balance between light-hearted imagery and profound emotional themes, inviting listeners on a captivating musical journey.
Overall, “Forever Howlong” may signify a departure from Black Country, New Road’s previous sound, but it highlights their resilience and willingness to explore new musical territories. While not every experiment on the album may hit the mark, the band’s melodic strength and captivating arrangements shine through, guiding listeners on a scenic route through their musical evolution. It is a testament to their enduring creativity and determination to chart their own course, no matter where it may lead.