A New Chapter
For fans of Birmingham's Mexicolas, the band's latest offering may come as a bit of a shock. In 2008 the band's album, "X" received well earned praise for its huge riffs and wall of guitars that filled the tracks but things have changed for the trio in the last few years. For starters the number of band members have shrunk, by two thirds no less as singer Jamie Evans has transformed into something of a multi-instrumentalist, writing, singing and playing every instrument on all bar one of the 13 tracks on the new album, "The Minerva Suite". But the band members aren't the only changes; Mexicolas sound has also altered, gone are the hard hitting tracks of old and in their wake comes a rush of alternative rock that once fans have get their head around, may just see the now one manned Mexicolas getting attention from a wider audience.
Taking its name from the studio in which it was recorded, "The Minerva Suite" sees a more mature sound from Mexicolas as opener 'Lullaby' provides a melodic dose of soaring vocals amidst invigorating beats that instantly engages as Evans' vocals steer you through a rousing anthemic sense of defiance. "The Minerva Suite" even manages to flit into catchy territory with the irresistible bounce of 'Take Off' complete with infectious "Oh Oh Ohhs" to insure that those not tapping their feet along to the unapologetically contagious drum beats will at the very least be joining in with the singing. Indeed Evans refuses to stick to one format for too long, guaranteeing that whilst there is an undeniable rock radio friendly core throughout the album, there is also no fear of "The Minerva Suite" becoming stagnant and covering old ground. From the indie blast of 'Brightest Diamond' which sounds as if it has just swaggered out of Manchester to the balladesque tranquillity of 'Closer' that offers a Kelly Jones emotionally fuelled vulnerability from every line sung, "The Minerva Suite" is an album to take you through every emotion, never rehashing a track as Mexicolas seep into your hearts.
Having transformed from a trio to what is basically now a solo act, Mexicolas have certainly changed in the last few years and whilst their new direction may not please all their fans, with a little time and a few repeat listens the Birmingham outfit will undoubtedly put minds at ease. For those new to the Mexicolas fold, "The Minerva Suite" is the start of something special for it can surely only be a matter of time before Jamie Evans' Mexicolas ushers in a flurry of new fans.