It’s not just any band that can last forty years, much less produce an eighth album of substance and traction. But Scottish noise pop pioneers The Jesus And Mary Chain have done just that with Glasgow Eyes.
While the over-the-top wall of noise guitar sound they’re known for has been somewhat scaled back, everything that is expected from a JAMC recording is represented here. Starting with Venal Joy, a driving track that grabs the listener. Mediterranean X Film is a piece of indie gold that would fit nicely on any college rock playlist. Discotheque, with its laid back approach, has a smooth groove and a guitar riff that is reminiscent of classic JAMC. The same is true with Pure Poor. Don’t be fooled, though. This is definitely a band that is showing a maturity that can’t be fabricated. This is the 21st Century JAMC.
The Eagles And The Beatles wears its influence on its sleeve and it’s title. Although I personally hear more of The Rolling Stones on this track, a fact made obvious in the lyrics.
Silver Strings, Chemical Animal and Second of June subtly sneak in the electronic aesthetic established on their 1989 classic, Automatic.
As closers go, JAMC wear their influences on their sleeve yet again with Hey Lou Reid [sic]. This track would sound perfectly in place on The Velvet Underground right alongside What Goes On.
Glasgow Eyes is more cerebral and not quite the ear worm that was its predecessor, 2017’s Damage And Joy. But fans of The Jesus And Mary Chain should find it enjoyable and it has everything necessary to attract new fans as well.
https://thejesusandmarychain.bandcamp.com/album/glasgow-eyes