Lush – Blind Spot EP (Out April 15th / (US) 22nd 2016 via Edamame Records)
Just got my CD copy of the new Blind Spot EP and T-shirt bundle through the door and i am just trying to reign in my enthusiasm, why? It’s just the first new music from Lush for 20 years, and the first the band have released since their single ‘500 (Shake Baby Shake)’, taken from their last album ‘Lovelife’, back in July 1996. Still remember their Manor Quay show in Sunderland fondly, like a treasured family event. In the mist of 4AD boxset on CD and vinyl, first with the ‘Ciao’ compilation release, to be followed with the 5xLP ‘Origami’ boxset released exclusive on Record Store Day and will be available in participating independent record stores only from April 16th. With the EP ‘Blind Spot’ is being released day earlier on the 15th, except in the US where it’s out on the 22nd.
All four tracks were recorded in the summer of 2015 with Daniel Hunt (Ladytron) and Jim Abbiss (Adele, Kasabian, Arctic Monkeys). Of recording of the EP, Miki Bereny, recalled “It’s been a long time since I’ve written Lush lyrics, and I realised early on with this EP that what I wrote about then is not what I feel comfortable writing about now. My perspective, and what is close to my heart, has changed, and I think that’s conveyed in the songs.”
‘Out Of Control’ narrative may have changed somewhat, but at from the opening track that Lush sound has not dimmed any, lyrically calmer and warmer. ‘Lost Boy’ still finds Mikki in lighter mood. ‘Burnham Beeches’ sails along happily as well continuing the high quality, only gripe, I hesitate to suggest maybe more bite even sarcasm would mot go amiss, at least on one track. But as the new EP ends with another well crafted ‘Rosebud’ ends for the fifth time. I am chastened by my earlier comment. It’s just the case, that where Mikki, Emma and Phil ‘are,’ right now is a good, if not a contented, place. Couple the different mindset with the band’s distinctive sound and song-writing skills, it still works well, feels like indie-rock has never gone away, wait, actually it hasn’t. The ‘Blind Spot’ EP is both relevant and potent, Lush back together in 2016 – ace. 8/10
Steve Janes
Lush – Out Of Control video
Lush begin touring in April with a show at the Roxy in Los Angeles on the 14th prior to the band playing Coachella Festival on the 16th. For all upcoming dates, please visit www.lushofficial.com/tour.
1. Out Of Control
2. Lost Boy
3. Burnham Beeches
4. Rosebud
pre-order the EP direct from the band at www.lushofficial.com.