Now – incredibly – into their fourth decade (they were formed in 1989) Ulster noise-merchants Therapy? show no signs of slowing down. Andy Cairns’ men were at the forefront of the post-grunge scene in the UK during the mid-1990s and raised their heads above the musical parapet in the midst of Britpop’s chart domination with their classic Troublegum. Following live album We’re Here to the End, Therapy? finally return with their 13th studio offering, A Brief Crack of Light.
Amidst a sea of shoe and navel gazing acts throughout the noughties, Therapy? never really lost it but something stirs within ABCOL which suggests the band have returned with a fresh energy and vigour. The first single from the record, Living in the Shadow of the Terrible Thing, retains all the punk-pop sensibilities which made Troublegum and its successor Infernal Love so successful with the mainstream masses – not to mention the radio playlisters.
Hypnotic instrumental Marlow is – oddly – something of a standout track on this album and is sure to be a favourite in the mosh-pit on their upcoming tour. Mike McKeegan’s bass thuds along pulling the guitar along with it before we’re treated to a blast of drum and bass…strang but still, weirdly, feeling in keeping with the Therapy? vibe.
The energy of the album – particularly so deep into the band’s career is impressive. There are slower, more introspective and, I’d have to concede, slightly weaker tracks – Plague Bell perhaps missing the mark somewhat but even so A Brief Crack… still sits comfortably with the band’s best work.
Cairns and co may not quite be eligible for their Rolling Stones Long Service Medals just yet but there’s still plenty of gas in the tank and the promise of great things still to come.
Release date:06/02/2012
[Rating:4]
http://www.therapyquestionmark.co.uk
