Glasgow-based two-piece, Man of Moon, have delivered a staggeringly impressive display of talent on their second record, “MACHINISM”.
Building on the sound of their first record, “Dark Sea”, Man of Moon take their already established sound in a new and surprising direction.
“MACHANISM” keeps the personal lyrics the band are known for, whilst also discussing issues like Brexit and the dangers of technology.
The album also sees the band dive deeper into psychedelic and trip-hop, building up their already mesmerising sound.
In the PR for the album, vocalist Chris Bainbridge describes how the album “encapsulates what is happening right now with technology becoming a more and more dominant force in the world”.
“Give you something to shout about”
Rise kicks the album off with a bang. Starting slow before exploding into a fast paced guitar heavy tune, setting up a lot of the elements that band will play with this time around.
You and I was the first single released for the album. A great wee heavy hitter, it embodies Man of Moon’s new but familiar sound.
Swim brings in the electronic component of the album. A catchy synth beat mixed with echoed vocals, it’s bursting with personality and style.
Video deals with the idea of being consumed by technology, it’s got a moody atmosphere and incredibly catchy chorus that makes it stand out from other songs on the album.
Time is the highlight of the album. A blend of Krautrock and electronic elements, all building to an explosive close.
The Tide slows the album down for a moment. A somber atmospheric track that sounds like a Man of Moon spin on a Mogwai tune.
“It only takes a second then you’re gone”
In the Water is very similar to the first few tracks. A medium paced alt-rock track with an almost TOOL inspired breakdown near the end of the song.
Reign is a ferocious tune that sweeps the listener up and rockets them along an adrenaline-fueled criticism of political power. A song that clearly takes inspiration from TOOL.
Machines That Breathe is a gentle piano track that sets up the sound of the next two songs.
Run and Hide is a re-recording of an earlier Man of Moon song.Weaving Trip-Hop and Shoegaze help elevate the song above it’s original recording.
The Wild closes the album on somber note. A quiet track, that’s reminiscent of Radiohead’s slower piano tracks.
Bainbridge stands by the choice of closer, stating that he, “wanted the album to have a comedown at the end. A breather, to reflect…”
“It was like you knew”
“MACHINISM” displays how Man of Moon are a band of many influences, but they always find a way to make their sound entirely their own.
It’s been incredible to see the band evolve over the course of their lifetime, now finding a perfect blend for their sound.
“Machinism” releases May 24 and is available on Spotify
Featured image credit: Man of Moon
Fourth year Film and Journalism student
Deputy editor
Contact - deputyeditor@brignews.com
