The New Wave and Post-Punk movement of the late ‘70s into the ‘80s truly transformed Rock music as we know it. Paving the way for what we would eventually be called Alternative Rock, so many bands of the era had something different to offer. Taking a glimpse closer, England’s Modern English was one of those which left a lasting impression all while following their own way forward.
Initially coming together in 1979 The Lepers, by 1981 they put out their debut album Mesh & Lace going as Modern English. An album which showcased the band’s intent to create something ambitious and different, it was a year later in 1982 with After the Snow that the band would honestly realize their fullest potential. An explosive time for the band, After the Snow forever etching Modern English into Pop music history thanks to the mega hit “I Melt with You.” A song that everyone knows and loves, while it is a point of reference to the mainstream, it does not entirely define Modern English as creators. Never sticking to one form, and shifting around freely, in 2024 they offer yet another wrinkle to their storyline with the forthcoming album 1 2 3 4.
Set for release on February 23rd, 1 2 3 4 marks the band’s first studio album in nearly eight years. The last, September of 2016’s Take Me to the Trees, was a delightful return, finding the band creating some darker tingling music similar to their early days. From here they partook in some steady touring from 2016 through to 2023 (minus the lockdown year of 2020), and through this reintroduced themselves to a dedicated group of followers, all while earning some new ones as well. This in mind, Modern English – Robbie Grey (vocals), Gary McDowell (guitars), Mick Conroy (bass), and Stephen Walker (keyboards) – create something a little bit different with 1 2 3 4.
Looking at it further, the album offers ten new songs that hark back to a more Post-Punk Rock inclination. Retaining signature guitar and synth textures, the feel of these songs is somehow brighter, yet still darker contextual. What this means is that Modern English marries more up-tempo arrangements with lyrical themes that poke at the modern world’s political circus and all its hypocrisy. Prime examples of this include the singles “Long in the Tooth” and “Not My Leader,” but also “Genius,” “Out To Lunch,” as well as the more abstract “Plastic.”
All potent songs which are more rally cries for people to awaken, opposed to creating division, Modern English’s is very much akin to more classic Punk Rock approach and it is quite commendable. Something that is refreshing and thought-provoking, there is a potent, sincere messaging in these songs that says- instead of picking a side, we need to unite against both of them… because they are each equally marred with corruption and selfish intent. Perhaps a bit too heavy for some, not to worry, because as stated, nothing is shoved down your throat here, but instead questions raised that are left out there for you to do with what you will.
Beyond these factors, 1 2 3 4 also has a few lighter tracks too; including “Not Fake,” the catchy single “Crazy Lovers,” and “I Know Your Soul.” Each quite melodic and memorable, the mix of insight with more romantic approaches to the songs make for a lovely, balanced listening experience. Overall, Grey, McDowell, Conroy, and Walker capture the spirit of Punk and the sound of Post-Punk Rock music in a way that reminds us that these movements still have a heartbeat. Sounding authentic, uniquely their own, and confident, Cryptic Rock gives Modern English’s 1 2 3 4, 4.5 out of 5 stars.
){kind=link}
No comment