Ever since Mr Bruce first announced his solo
project, many fans have been eagerly anticipating his first release. Across
this scene, Mr Bruce is arguably one of the most respected musicians, and certainly
one of the most respected singers one can find. And following the tragic death of Chucks, the other half of the Correspondents last year, there has been a
lingering question as to what Mr Bruce would do next. Race To Nowhere (Part
One) is the answer to that question, ironically showcasing a very important
record for the electro swing scene – despite not featuring any electro swing
itself. Working alongside producer Angus Kemp, Bruce here presents us with five
original pieces.
The EP opens with the title track, ‘Race To
Nowhere’ which is both recognisable as something we’re familiar with, whilst
also sounding like something entirely original. He possesses such a distinctive
voice, and it completely fits the style – with some noticeably dark lyrics as
well which will be a theme across this release. Kemp includes many subtle
individual parts throughout the production; with the song building throughout –
especially towards the end – and setting the EP off with a bang. One can
definitely recognise this as a successor to the Correspondents, taking the best
of what they created and yet moving in an altogether new direction. The next
track is ‘I Am Disaster’, in which the lyrics are even darker, introspectively
exploring Bruce’s feelings of guilt and personal responsibility for the
problems of the world. Partly acapella, many of the instruments are made up of
his own processed vocals; and there’s a very clear drum ’n’ bass influence,
with endless energy. The track is perfectly designed to absolutely go off live –
it’s phenomenal. Without a doubt one of the best songs of 2021.
Following this is ‘Easier’ – a moment of
respite we’re given in the middle of the EP. It feels like one should possibly
have a moment of relaxation to this, and yet it’s impossible to shake that
unmistakable feeling of dread and unease. Very different from the rest of the
release, but of course - it's just like Mr Bruce to present us with something
different and unexpected. And as a side note – this song has one of the most
creative music videos I've ever seen. The energy then comes back up for ‘I
Must Confess’, which starts off sounding almost like something from an acid
house Ibiza rave. The vocals are rapid in this – he's been largely singing on
the record so far – but this song reminds us of his prowess as an MC as well. It's
amazing how he can present such energetic music for such downbeat lyrics – and
yet the fusion is flawless. There's no slowing down at all here, and the
breakdown toward the end providing just a further moment of commotion. And
finally, the EP ends with ‘Volatile Times’, featuring a bit of a garage
influence, even bringing this in within his vocal inflections. Whilst it’s not
quite as powerful as the other fast numbers, there is more diversity within
this one, and the final few moments in particular I love. Whilst this song ends
the EP with a message that is still disheartening overall, there is perhaps a
little more optimism here than in the remainder of the release.
With this release, Mr Bruce has proven that
he can absolutely hold his own as a solo artist. The death of Chucks was of course
heartbreaking, and the music that the two produced as a duo was fantastic. But
working alongside Angus Kemp now, Bruce is showing that he is not letting
anything get in the way of his talent. These songs are brilliant, and there is
so much potential demonstrated within them. This potential is especially potent
when considering future live performances; and one may note his plans for a
solo tour next Spring. Personally, I already have tickets for the Cardiff show,
and coming off the back of this record, I genuinely cannot wait.
No comments:
Post a Comment