The album opens with the uplifting and stirring 'White Noise', I have to say this is one of the best opening tracks to any album I have heard of late. If you have never heard Mogwai before, then this opener is a great introduction to the remaining album. Again the influences of Post Rock pioneers Slint, Sonic Youth & My Bloody Valentine are clearly evident but also interestingly I am hearing Sigur Ros style delicate piano over distorted drawn out guitar chords. It's certainly a superb start to this album and then out of nowhere the recently released 'Mexican Grand Prix' begins and this album truly comes to life.... a beautiful track with a driving beat and vocoded vocals. I don t say this to often, but on my 3rd listen I am loving this.
I saw Mogwai headline East London's cutting edge alternative music festival 'Field Day' in 2009 and I dont think I appreciated them as much as I should have done. Their career is a long one and they have been one of the most hardworking bands around, this album deserves critical acclaim and I wouldn't be surprised to see them headline further festivals this year. Mogwai play Brixton Academy on 25th of this month before setting off on a globe trotting tour and hit LA's Mayan on May 10th. Full Tour details here.
The Album artwork is a photograph by Anthony Crook and in my opinion is the best album cover so far this year....
San Pedro is the track from the album that is doing the rounds and I think is the best example of Mogwai's sound on this album, just brilliant:
Mogwai - San Pedro by subpop
Free Download of album track Rano Pano here:
This is nothing short of a superb record and I totally urge you to explore Mogwai and dive into this new album, out on 15th February on Sub Pop in the US & on the 14th February on Rock Action in Europe.
Possibly worth a Vinyl purchase? Just me?
Welcome back Mogwai, you have been missed!
-Andy in London
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