“Ants From Up There” - Redefining the Classic

The first time I remember hearing about Black Country, New Road was from friends. They pointed me to their flagship single “Sunglasses” as a cover song; it did its job. It wasn’t until the first album “For the first time” came out that I realized how this band would emotionally impact me and many others. 

In 2019, Black Country, New Road formed as a group of friends. Some of them were classically trained musicians, while others were self-taught.

The band has always been very quick to develop new soundscapes and ethos. The legacy behind the album "Ants From Up There" defines it. From the creativity of The Microphone’s “The Glow Pt. 2” to Car Seat Headrest’s “Twin Fantasy," "Ants From Up There" harnesses the true essence of indie rock.

The album's soundscapes in "Ants From Up There" ranges from mesmerizing to heartbreaking. Songs like “Concorde” and “Haldern” offer a better look at the band member Isaac Wood. His contributions to this album seem to be more than one person can handle. Taking from Arcade Fire and Slint for vocal and instrumental inspirations, it’s obvious that the listener is in for a down-to-earth journey. In the song “The Place Where He Inserted The Blade,” the lyrics seem to crawl into the instrumental. Sergio Maschetzko produced this track from the record label Ninja Tune. 

My favorite part of the album has to be in its 12-minute closer, “Basketball Shoes”. It was the second time that I listened to it where the heavy weight of the track hit me full force. I was very impressed and emotional. The production throughout the whole record is crisp, clear, and direct. It offers mental space for the listener to make their own conclusions. 

Black Country, New Road is currently touring in festivals across Europe and Japan. They just finished a leg of a tour with the band Black Midi.

Looking at this album now, it is clear to see that the downfall of member Isaac Wood was inevitable. But the result of it was nothing less than his all. It’s hard to hear differences if this album is in triumph or in agony. It’s a good mix of both. 

If you need to listen to something emotional or for doing errands, this album will be your new go-to. I do recommend you keep tissues on standby while listening to it. With great respect to everyone involved in the project, I highly recommend you give it a listen.