Mclusky’s vibrant return to the music scene has not just been a revelation but a celebration of resilience, marked by their new album The World Is Still Here and So Are We, which has garnered widespread acclaim since its release. This new record, their first in 21 years, showcases a striking evolution in their sound while staying true to the ferocity that initially captured audiences back in 2002 with Mclusky Does Dallas. The trio, now composed of frontman Andrew “Falco” Falkous, new bassist Damien Sayall, and drummer Jack Egglestone, have reignited their momentum in the UK music landscape, resonating particularly well with the current surge of interest in noise rock.

Despite the passage of time, the band’s intensity remains undiminished, a fact evident during their live performance at Leeds’ Brudenell Social Club. Falkous, battling ongoing struggles with tinnitus and hyperacusis, has adapted by performing with noise-cancelling headphones and incorporating a plexiglass sound barrier for the drum kit. Despite these challenges, the energy of their performance is palpable, with Sayall's contributions adding a fresh dynamism. Critics have noted that their sound now evokes a musical alchemy reminiscent of influential bands like the Jesus Lizard and Fugazi, blending aggressive sonics with tracks that offer poignant reflection, such as “She Will Only Bring You Happiness”.

The album's vivid lyricism presents a unique blend of humour and absurdity, reminiscent of icons like Pere Ubu’s David Thomas and The Fall’s Mark E Smith. Falkous’s wordplay is sharp and thought-provoking, as he delivers lines such as, “Your heart’s gone the colour of Coca-Cola,” juxtaposed against the furious backdrop of their music. This mix of introspection and chaotic energy shows growth in their songwriting, capturing a world that feels increasingly chaotic yet resonates deeply with listeners.

The band's earlier, unapologetically provocative singles like “Lightsabre Cocksucking Blues” and “Alan Is a Cowboy Killer” have stood the test of time, now celebrated with nostalgia as they perform newer tracks like “Way of the Exploding Dickhead.” With lyrics that slyly critique societal norms, Mclusky appears more relevant than ever, tapping into the contemporary music scene that has embraced similar sounds with open arms, as seen with the ascendance of bands like Idles and Fontaines DC.

As they navigate a music industry that has evolved dramatically since their last album, Mclusky's return signifies not just a revival of their career but also a timely resonance with a new generation of fans. This resurgence reaffirms that, while the landscape of music changes, the raw energy and wit that Mclusky brings to their performances remain enduring aspects of their identity. Their return is indeed a welcome note of tenacity amid a shifting musical landscape.

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Source: Noah Wire Services