Four years after their debut album When I Have Fears, The Murder Capital, an Irish post-punk quintet, returns with Gigi's Recovery, released via Human Season Records. This new album sees the band taking a different approach, moving towards a more mellow sound, which may surprise and even confuse some of their long-time fans.
The first single, "A Thousand Lives," gives a taste of the new direction, as it leans more towards a love song rather than the protest anthems we've come to expect from the band. With an electro influence reminiscent of Massive Attack, this track marks a departure from their earlier post-punk sound.
"Ethel," the second single, further confirms the band's shift towards a calmer, Fontaines D.C.-inspired style. James McGovern's vocals take on a warmer, more serious tone, while the instrumentation is more subdued.
However, the album isn't entirely devoid of the band's signature intensity. "Return My Head" sees The Murder Capital return to their angry, denouncing roots, with lyrics that criticize the handling of confinements and the decisions of those in power. This track will surely please fans of their debut album.
Gigi's Recovery features several ballads, such as "The Lie Becomes The Self" and the eponymous "Gigi's Recovery." These songs showcase a more introspective side of the band, with tracks like "Only Good Things" even including some rock intonations.
One standout track is "Belonging," a beautiful ballad featuring caressing keyboard layers that complement McGovern's baritone voice. Synthetic loops also make their presence felt in tracks like "The Stars Will Leave Their Stage," "Crying," and "A Thousand Lives."
While Gigi's Recovery may not entirely satisfy those who were enamored with When I Have Fears and "More Is Less," it demonstrates that The Murder Capital is unafraid to explore new musical territories and reveal a more human side of themselves. This daring change in direction makes the album a strong contender for one of the year's best releases, promising an exciting future for the band.
