Boston Manor‘s fifth studio album, Sundiver drops this Friday, September 6th and serves as the follow-up to their 2022 release, Datura. Sundiver, produced by Larry Hibbitt and engineer Alex O’Donovan, represents a clear departure from its predecessor, with a refreshing evolution in sound and style.
“Datura (Dawn)” opens the album with a serene ambiance, featuring birds chirping and the lyrics, “Could you please open that window, let the new world in,” and straight off the bat the contrast to the previous record is clear.
The album continues with the previously released singles “Container,” “Sliding Doors,” “Heat Me Up,” and “Horses In A Dream.” These tracks showcase Boston Manor’s signature blend of emotive, introspective lyrics with choppy guitars, infectious melodies, and frontman Henry Cox’s stunning vocals. It’s no surprise that these tracks have been met with enthusiastic fan reception.
Transitioning into “Morning Star,” the album introduces a brief interlude with distorted guitars which marks the halfway point in the album and leads us seamlessly into “Why I Sleep,” a standout track where Cox’s vocal performance truly shines. The clean vocals, complemented by occasional crisp screams, are flawlessly executed, and the industrial-sounding instrumentation enhances the track’s overall impact.
“Fornix,” had its live debut during Boston Manor’s recent Aussie tour. This one has a stunningly cinematic tone with its atmospheric layers, choppy guitars, and eerie melody. Meanwhile, “Dissolve” begins with a minimal beat and stripped-back vocals, gradually building into an explosive chorus that adds a fun, energetic element to the album.
“What Is Taken Will Never Be Lost” is a more sombre piece, featuring deeply expressive lyrics and emotionally charged vocals against a backdrop of simple beat and guitar riff. Its understated arrangement highlights the beauty of its simplicity.
The album concludes with “DC Mini,” featuring Heriot, and it’s the perfect way to end the journey that is Sundvier. The track’s dynamic build-up and heavier vocals create an anthem-like finale, leaving a lasting impression.
Boston Manor have truly outdone themselves with Sundiver, delivering what I believe to be their best work yet. This record not only showcases the band’s artistic maturity but also highlights their continuous growth. With its next-level lyrics and intricate instrumentation, Sundiver sets a new standard for what Boston Manor can achieve.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Sundiver will be released this Friday. Sarah caught up with Henry Cox from Boston Manor in Melbourne, just before the final gig of their Australian tour. You can catch that chat HERE.
