What can I say, but to scream of joy that The Jesus and Mary Chain have return in studio format? Now, how much sense does Damage and Joy make?
I believe there is no need to mention how influential are The Jesus and Mary Chain as many of contemporary artists try to implement what the band has been doing back in the 80s. Their zenith was definitely Psychocandy, an album many consider as a key ingredient for the genre’s soup. From the mid-80s until today, many things have changes. First of all, the members are not the same, which is not so relevant as brothers Reid are cornerstones. Notable mention goes to Bobby Gillespie from Primal Scream who played for The Jesus and Mary Chain for a while.
When you have a band which brought sweet noise into the world of music, and caused revolution from the go, then your glory and inspiration will necessarily fade away. What can Reid brothers offer to millenials beside the romance of the 80s, basics of shoegaze and noise pop? Is that enough?
Lately, I have noticed than many albums have memorable titles that speak about the record on its own. Damage and Joy is the best possible description of what lies within, because these boys are in their 50s but they still offer fun and they enjoy doing it.
The themes have slightly changes. It seems like life experience has inspired them to question more. Everything is combined with dense noise and sticky melodies. Thanks to Youth who produced the album, the sound is pure and reasonably polished. Personally, I would leave it more raw because it would emphasize the essence of The Jesus and Marry Chain, the very essence that made them famous back in the day.
Amputation is instant classic, and it shows them in top shape. Distorted guitars and pragmatic pop melody introduces us to the album, and the lyrics about senior rockers who lack attention are permeated with candor. The guys are back to prove they still have the fire within. War on Peace is a complete opposite, with its minimalistic psychedelic note. All Things Pass is a true hit due to its mellifluous noise with catchy chorus. Always Sad and Songs for a Secret sound like contemporary The Velvet Underground, and the additional charm is secured by female vocals.
The Two of Us is homage to The Rolling Stones, and the ballade Los Feliz (Blues and Greens) cut the album nicely. Mood Rider has the vibe of BRMC, but it ends up not being catchy enough. Presidici unfold brutally and then it turns to something too saccharine. The biggest surprise of the record is Black and Blues, and I am confident that this could be a big radio hit.
When we draw the line, we can conclude that Damage and Joy is a cool album. Tours of The Jesus and Mary Chain make perfect sense. The album could have been more attractive, especially the second half. If they threw out 3 or 4 songs, I would consider this an epic return. Now it’s just a solid comeback.
