By admin
Twin Atlantic are back with a ferocious rock album, unearthing a return to their alternative roots yet GLA is a slightly more risky album than the previous attempts. The Scottish rockers are undoubtedly making the music they want to, with no obvious ‘safe’ radio track in sight on the album. Throughout GLA, the angst filled tracks are consistent with heavy beats and cleverly crafted lyrics that accompany the growling riffs and pounding rhythms to create a solid fifth album for the Glaswegian band.
The album commences with Gold Elephant: Cherry Alligator (the studio version being released a few weeks before the album’s release) and is a vigorous opener, Sam McTrusty’s howling voice screeches and pierces through the thumping instruments. The ferocity continues through No Sleep (which sounds amazing live by the way) and You Are The Devil (very muse-esque particularly towards the latter part of the track).
Ex El is another solid track, whilst somewhat forgettable, its loud and anthemic with a catchy chorus. Things elevate during Valhalla; a dark and weighty brooding tale. Again the muse vibe is strong but it works well with the signature swagger Twin Atlantic add to the track. Whispers is another highlight, almost acting as the ‘Mountains’ (fellow Scots Biffy Clyro) for GLA, truly displaying the vocal range of McTrusty. The lyrics are written by bassist Ross McNae and the emotion is emulated through McTrusty’s raw ability.
Twin Atlantic sustain the emotional tone for the next track, A Scar To Hide. A beautiful acoustic piece featuring a strings instrumentals section, arranged by Coldplay collaborator Davide Rossi. Whispers is one of the highlights from GLA and could provides a calm respite from the previous adrenaline fuelled tracks. The final track, Mothertoungue, is another solid track from Twin Atlantic but lacks a catharsis of an album closer. Despite this, it is still an incredible song and undeniably will be a fan favourite when played live.
Ultimately, GLA is a true Twin Atlantic album that triumphs in multiple ways. A classic rock album that should cement their position as one of Scotland’s finest bands, particularly as GLA progresses and develops into a complex and honest album. Whilst it retains the classic Twin Atlantic style it exhibits how the band has developed and have become one of the most solid modern rock acts around.
Track Listing:
Gold Elephant: Cherry Alligator
No Sleep
You Are The Devil
Overthinking
Ex El
Valhalla
I Am Alive
Whispers
A Scar To Hide
Missing Link
The Chaser
Mothertongue
