I’ve been lucky enough to see this manic bunch a few times already, on the first encounter they left me gob smacked, with their frenzied modus operandi. Which begs the question, can they capture and retain my attention on record as well ? Of course I know a few of the tracks from the live shows so as I picture Brodie Maquire pirouetting with his Gretsch, ‘Mother Knows Best’ is locked and loaded on my headphones.
The rattling drums and low riffing of ‘Fame Or Shame’ is an appropriate opener. It demonstrates from the start how Mother Vulture break all the rules and dish up uncomplicated, messiness. Bending the strings and more skin bashing for the latest single ‘Monster Crunch’ and Georgi Valentine blasts his vocals so sharply, they reverberate on my ear drums in a shockingly blissful manner. The track is short but leaves a sweet taste. Another single ’Honey’ drags its heels more. With a story to tell, the lyrics feature strongly before the guitars crackle towards the end. ‘Rabbit Hole’ is more well known with fans. Like ‘Alice’ we descend into darkness with chanting harmony, but as the song bounces off the walls, there’s an increasing sinister vibe. Powerfully corruptive, the guitars wrap around with endless chords and the menacing style of Valentine is the perfect antidote for any feeling a little sleepish. ‘Big Bad’ rips up with authentic ‘rock and roll’ from Maquire. Another track that splinters in all directions. A mass of hollering and zealous intent, makes this a true bad boy. Matt West taps his drum sticks while the melody of ’Shifting Sands’ begins to flow. It’s an apt title, as the Eastern theme mid way conjours up sultry smoothness, between the otherwise punchy rhythm and brazen utterings.
‘Mr Jones’ and that almost ‘slap’ bass of Chris Simpson, what a blinding track. Juggling and cavorting like a dervish ‘Mr Jones’ certainly keeps up the rapid tempo that presides on the album so far. A sonic shrillness and raised dynamics for ‘Vile Breed’, a song that is driven by another smothering of magnificent guitar licks. All hell breaks loose before it dies a slow death. ‘Not Yet’ creeps into being, murky and determined as it pulsates. Definitely a change of trait and shows that Mother Vulture can cut it while changing pace. ‘Put Me Down’ also treads with different shoes, there’s a touch of retro ‘grunge’ amongst the wavering vocals and gritty strings. Having a totally delectable sound, this one raises the bar a little. ‘Interlude’ lasts 22 seconds and is basically the way in for ‘Homemaker’ which is the twelfth and final offering. All is unlocked and brought to the forefront on this belter, rounding up ‘Mother Knows Best’ with divine noise.
A twelve track debut album, from the Bristol band, that has been feverishly awaited for a while and it doesn’t disappoint. If you have seen them perform, I don’t have to tell you how creative and unique this untamed troupe are. I hope my brief description of each track gives you some idea of their talent. You certainly can’t afford to miss out listening to this album, especially if you like your music on the unpredictable and evolutionary side. The answer to my initial question is yes, they kept me entertained, never any doubt really.
‘Unpredictable and evolutionary’
HIGHLIGHTS – Rabbit Hole, Mr Jones, Not Yet, Homemaker.
Keep up to date with the band on their FACEBOOK page & find Merch etc at BAND SHOP
Pre-order ‘Mother Knows Best’ at https://linktr.ee/MotherVulture
Recorded at Cube Recording Produced by Mother Vulture Engineered, Mixed and Co-Produced by Ross The Sound Guy. Mastered by Stardelta Mastering.
Mother Vulture are – Georgi Valentine: Vocals Brodie Maguire: Guitar Chris Simpson: Bass Matt West: Drums
Mother Vulture have an Album launch tour! Get tickets here – https://linktr.ee/MotherVulture
