Welsh noise rock band Mclusky released their fourth studio
album, “The World Is Still Here and So Are We,” on May 9, 2025. The album was
released through Ipecac Recordings and is the band’s first new album in 20
years.
Mclusky formed in Cardiff, Wales in the late 1990s. In their
career, they became known in the underground punk scene for their sharp lyrics,
hard-hitting riffs, and wild shows. They recorded three albums before they disbanded
in 2005. They began the process of becoming a band again in 2014 and officially
re-formed in 2019.
Mclusky now have a fourth album under their belt after
coming back together. The album features Damien Sayell on bass and vocals, Jack
Egglestone on drums, vocals, and percussion, and Andrew Falkous on guitar and vocals.
The intro of “the battle of los angelsea” reminded me of Queen’s
“We Will Rock You” and Wheezer’s “Beverly Hills.” The title is a glimpse into
what they have done with song titles on the album. The line, “I would give
anything to be that cigarette” is so comical and an unique way of saying
something that has been so cliché for so long.
Each song on the album is about something different and even
has a different feel. Even so, Mclusky holds true to their sound and voice so
you know it is them. This allows the album to hold the listener’s attention while
holding onto the voice they have worked hard to hone over the years. It has
dirty noise that fans have come to know and love from the band
The album holds true to the Mclusky that existed before
their split. They are just as noisy and riotous as before. The 20-year break
did not silence the band’s voice or personality, which is an accomplishment in
itself. The band’s sound is as strong as
ever, and fans have been receptive to the new album.
Overall, this album is a must-listen for those who were fans
of Mclusky back in the day, as well as those who want to give them a listen for
the first time. The album has a lot of dirty noise that is expected in this kind
of music, and their songs are relevant for today’s audience.
Track listing:
1. unpopular parts of a pig
2. cops and coppers
3. way of the exploding dickhead
4. the battle of los angelsea
5. people person
6. the competent horse thief
7. kafka-esque novelist franz kafka
8. the digger you deep
9. autofocus on the prime directive
10. not all steeplejacks
11. chekhov's guns
12. juan party-system
13. hate the polis
Related articles:
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-Album Review: "Life, Death, and Dennis Hopper" by the Waterboys: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/05/album-review-life-death-and-dennis-hopper.html
-Abum Review: “Make ‘em Laugh, Make ‘em Cry, Make ‘em Wait” by Stereophonics: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/05/abum-review-make-em-laugh-make-em-cry-make-em-wait-stereophonics.html