New Model Army - High
The first 'New Model Army' was a revolutionary regiment that partook in the English Civil War. Formed of battle-seasoned soldiers and led by experienced military men instead of rich aristocrats, they tore apart conceptions of class and were famed for their zeal and loyalty. With an unwavering commitment to innovation and a unique vision of what music can be, today's 'New Model Army' have certainly lived up to their namesake. 'High', the band's tenth studio album to date, continues this trend of defying convention - creating rock songs that are truly imaginative and poetic.
The band, who have been creating music for over twenty years, have made a record which is full of purpose. Lyrically, imagery of the natural world and the outdoors is followed in other songs by references to the industrial modern world inhabited by mankind, with several nods to classical mythology thrown in along the way. Such diverse subject matter gives the record an impressive sense of scope: it is clear that 'New Model Army' have a lot to say and their messages are carried off with real intelligence.
The British five-piece are loved for their ability to switch styles without losing any sense of musical identity. 'High' moves effortlessly from good old fashioned rock – the jaunty, upbeat 'Wired' with it's crisp guitars and smooth vocals and 'All Consuming Fire' a powerful, vicious attack on the corporation, celebrity, materialism and those who so slavishly follow them, it's all chugging guitars and insistent hooks. 'Dawn' shows off the group's folk influences, with a country-esque guitar accompanied by gently crashing drums, whilst the song 'Into the Wind' introduces a lulling acoustic guitar in an enigmatic song, with strong religious connotations.
Track three, the title track, sees an ethereal narrator observing and commenting on mankind, wisely offering the insight that what a person fears depends purely on how they choose to view it. Whilst the listener is being captivated by the lyrics, a symphony of cleverly incorporated violins further heightens the emotional intensity of the song.
'Sky in Your Eyes' deals with a mysterious woman, observed by the songwriter who is clearly captivated by her beauty and inner strength; it remains the most reserved number on the album, relaxed, thoughtful and lulling. In complete contrast, 'Nothing Dies Easy' begins with a rolling bass line and crunching guitars, urging on the pace and building the tension in a song which is primarily about death and clinging to life.
The album ender very much draws on the opening track 'Wired', the guitars are simple and upbeat, yet lyrics about mankind's bloodlust defy the happier atmosphere the music projects.
'New Model Army' have created an album which is lyrically beautiful and musically inventive. It is relaxed without being complacent and although sometimes lacking in excitement it is stirring and evocative. Certainly more than deserving of a careful listen.