Mogwai Will Never Die
Monday, March 21st, 2011
In the early days of Mogwai the band seemed intent on breaking new ground with each new album and EP. There were polar dynamics, aggression, and little regard for what most people consider a “song.” The latter half of Mogwai’s career (let’s say from 2003′s Happy Songs… onward) has been decidedly less adventurous. That’s not to say I haven’t enjoyed some of Mogwai’s output recently, but they’re not really making any music I get really excited about anymore. And that’s a bit of a shame.
Earlier this year the band put out Hardcore Will Never Die, But You Will, their seventh proper studio album (the band have never lost their ability to come up with amazing song and album titles, however). Does it mark a return to their adventurous beginnings? Not really. But I must say I’ve been enjoying it more than any of their albums in quite some time. White Noise, Rano Pano and, especially, George Square Thatcher Party are some of the best pieces of music the band have committed to tape in years. The latter is even quite “songy.” While the entire album doesn’t quite maintain the same quality, I am happy that Mogwai have drawn me back in once again.
Download
Mogwai – Rano Pano
Mogwai – San Pedro
Mogwai will be in Vancouver for a show at the Commodore on May 6. And no matter what the state of their albums may be, Mogwai are always an incredible force live on stage.
