ALBUM: Brian Jonestown Massacre ‘Mini Album Thingy Wingy’

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Quite possibly the most apt name for a record this year, Mini Album Thingy Wingy is the new record from Brian Jonestown Massacre. Recording seven brand new and exclusive tracks in his studio in Berlin, the infamous Anton Newcombe gives us another warped out hazy collection that only adds to the band’s ever increasing diversity of eclectic production. At just 35 minutes long, the mini album, if we can call it that (?) was co-produced, engineered and mixed by Fabien Lesure. Uniquely exploring unexpected Eastern influences, and bringing their ’60s wigged out sound up to date with a heavy dose of drone pop, BJM have managed to create another psychedelic trip.

Earlier this year Anton Newcombe released the dream worthy collaboration I Declare Nothing with the similarly enchanting Tess Parks, and the husky voiced singer makes her return, with a writing credit, on opening album track ‘Pish’. It’s a simplistic effort with an overwhelming multitude of swirling guitars. With effortless drawling lines such as “I’m on a high/Don’t bring me down”, the classic stoner influenced psychedelia hasn’t changed it’s format, but it’s still as engrossing as ever.

Collaborations seem to be key on this record, as next track ‘Prší Prší’ see’s Newcombe combine his musical abilities with Vladimir Nosal, frontman of Slovakian indie-pop band Queer Jane. Stripped back acoustic chords are layered over plenty rich organ notes and non-English drawling lyrics, synonymous with BJM’s past works.

“You gotta get that girl/or you go insane,” Newcombe warns over further mid-paced electric chords and a generous handful of reverbs you can wig out to. Third track, a cover of the 13th Floor Elevators ‘Dust’, again doesn’t attempt to break the typical BJM mould, with toe tapping qualities and American psychedelic roots shining through.

The record highlight comes from final track ‘Here Comes The Waiting For The Sun’, a cleverly titled mash up with references from both Beatles and Doors classics. Not taking themselves too seriously seems to be in the fundamental BJM DNA, as more backwards guitars and tentative drums carry the 5-minute wonder.

More of the bands creative and energetic spirit is displayed through the ’60s inspired flute and guitar solos in ‘Mandrake Handshake’, whereas the lengthier drawling ‘Leave It Alone’ encapsulates all that’s great about BJM’s innate ability to produce pretty brilliant shoegazing psych.

Mini Album Thingy Wingy is out now via ‘a’ Recordings.

 

Katie Muxworthy

Katie Muxworthy

Katie Muxworthy

Mainly write and talk shite.
Katie Muxworthy

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