It had been a long 2 year wait for another Magic Gang album. Their first blew me away, and was one of the strongest debut indie albums to come out for a while. Energetic rock mixed in with their playful, fun style made the album a fantastic listen wherever, whenever. I had high expectations for their next LP, and they did not disappoint.
Album Run Through
The album kicks off with a short 40 second intro, something rarely seen on an album these days. The sharp, floaty chords elevate the opening track which picks up after them. “Think For A Second” was the first song to be released from the album as a single. Its dynamic, peppy brass makes the song an extremely enjoyable listen, and one that’s guaranteed to makes you move. There is also a great instrumental middle eight which adds emphasis to the final chorus.
Whilst the opener was a classic Magic Gang track, following song, “Make A Sound“, is a very quick change of pace. It introduces itself with soft, calming synth and slower lyrics. The chorus brings with it a little more vigour, but for the most part the song maintains a wonderfully floaty, pleasant feel. There are also lots of unique bridges within it, which results in a brilliantly varied but complete song.
The next two tracks add some substance to the sounds of the album, and cement the feel and instrumentation the band was going for. “Just A Minute” features masterful lead guitar work throughout which constantly changes from feeding the verses to providing great solos in the bridges. There is also overlapping vocals and a drop of the lead guitar at the end of the track to ensure it maintains listener attention. “What Have You Got To Lose” contrasts the prior track by using the bass as its primary focus. The song is slower and rooted within low tones. This creates a brilliant divergence within the song as the chorus is an emphatic chant.
Title track “Death of the Party” is a melancholic look upon the atmosphere of a party. It features intelligent, emotionally delivered lyrics which are perfectly matched with a beautiful backing made up of guitar, strings and vocal harmonies.
“Take Back The Track” and “I Am Sunshine” maintain the chill, laid back vibe of the album. The first track was the 3rd single off the album and was quite a contrast to the first single. It perfectly fits the feel of the album. Its lyrics are amusing as it walks through a story of someone trying to find the name of a song they once heard. The latter track takes the dreaminess of the songs before it, and takes it to 10. Its a more psychedelic sound, which takes you on a kaleidoscopic adventure through its hazy, soothing tones.
The tracks that follow offer some fantastic variety towards the end of the album. This ensures the sounds evolve and keep the listener engaged. “Gonna Bounce Back” offers some grungy, classic punk vibes. Its unique spoken vocals and simple composition is a great change from the rest of the album. “Fail Better” continues the slower, dirtier sounds of the track that proceeds it. However, it also manages to feel distinct by having a smoother backing.
Closing the album is “(The World) Outside My Door“. It’s a total tempo change, slowing the album right down. This allows the lyrics to take centre stage, and the high quality of the wording ensures this opportunity isn’t wasted. It speaks to the feeling of never being good enough, and that everyone else is doing more. It’s a great track to reflect upon the rest of the album, and closes it elegantly.
Overall Review and Score
The Magic Gang came back with a very different album. It’s deeper, more complex and really lands its theming. They may have left behind some of the fun pop of their debut, but have made huge strides in the intricacy of not just their singles, but their album as a complete package. It takes a few listens to really start to appreciate the album, but it’s better for it.
I’m very interested where The Magic Gang will go after this album. It was a radical change from their first, and really proved their flexibility. I really enjoy a concept album that sticks tightly to its theme, and Death of the Party is one of the best in a while. Despite the move from pop rock to a more sophisticated sound, there is still plenty here that must be great to hear live. I have already secured tickets for their show in Manchester once restrictions are lifted.
Rating: 8/10
Top 3 Songs:
1. Make A Sound
2. Think
3. Death of the Party
