Music Review: black midi’s Geordie Greep aims for ‘The New Sound’ on his solo debut. And he hits it
Geordie Greep's Sonic Odyssey: Exploring the Boundless Realms of "The New Sound"
Geordie Greep's solo debut, "The New Sound," is a bold and unapologetic musical journey that challenges the boundaries of conventional genres. As the former frontman of the experimental British rock band black midi, Greep has never shied away from pushing the envelope, and his latest offering is no exception. Fans of his previous work may find themselves both intrigued and perplexed by this sonic exploration, as Greep seamlessly blends elements of blues, jazz, funk, and progressive rock to create a truly unique listening experience.Defying Expectations: Geordie Greep's Sonic Reinvention
Embracing the Unconventional
Geordie Greep's "The New Sound" is a testament to his unwavering commitment to artistic expression. Reminiscent of the eclectic genius of Frank Zappa, the album caters to those who appreciate the art of genre-bending and the creation of immersive musical worlds. From narrative-driven show tunes to discordant progressive rock compositions, Greep's solo debut showcases his ability to captivate listeners with his idiosyncratic approach to songwriting.Continuity and Departure
While the continuity from Greep's work with black midi is evident, particularly in his mastery of blending blues, jazz, and funk, "The New Sound" also represents a significant departure from his previous endeavors. This may prove to be a letdown for a subset of black midi fans who were hoping for a more familiar sound. However, Greep's willingness to explore uncharted territories and challenge his own artistic boundaries is a testament to his creative vision.A Cacophonous Delight
The album's lead single, "Holy, Holy," serves as a tantalizing preview of the sonic odyssey that awaits listeners. As the various instruments – from percussion and horns to saxophones and three pianos – compete for attention, Greep's vocals embody a desperate, lustful character, seamlessly blending euphoria and chaos. This cacophonous delight is a testament to Greep's idiosyncratic skill, as he manages to create a listening experience that is both disorienting and strangely captivating.Embracing Global Influences
The shattering and reinvention of musical styles that permeates "The New Sound" is likely inspired, in part, by Greep's time in Brazil, where half of the album's songs were recorded. The instrumental title track and the lyrically austere "Bongo Season" stand out for their distinct Latin and bossa nova influences, further expanding the album's sonic palette and showcasing Greep's ability to incorporate global sounds into his unique musical vision.Theatrical Flair and Storytelling
One of the most striking aspects of "The New Sound" is its heavy theatrical flair, which sets it apart from Greep's work with black midi. The emphasis on storytelling, evident in tracks like "Through a War" and "As If Walz," as well as the uninhibited use of Greep's voice – from subdued vocals to literal howls on "Terra" – imbue the album with a sense of dramatic intensity that is both captivating and unsettling.Navigating the Dissonant and the Harmonious
The nearly 13-minute epic "The Magician" serves as a microcosm of the album's daring approach. Greep drowns his audience in harmonious bliss, only to gradually introduce dissonant elements that challenge the listener's tolerance for noise. This choice, in many ways, reflects the overall ethos of "The New Sound" – a delicate balance between the ordered and the turbulent, the earnest and the irreverent.Geordie Greep's "The New Sound" is a bold and uncompromising musical statement that defies easy categorization. It is an album that demands the listener's full attention, inviting them to embark on a sonic odyssey that is as disorienting as it is captivating. For those willing to embrace the unconventional and the boundary-pushing, "The New Sound" is a revelatory listening experience that showcases Greep's remarkable talent and his unwavering commitment to artistic exploration.
