Mogwai, Earth Division Review
There’s something about a new Mogwai EP that gives me a feel good tickle in my undercrackers and ‘Earth Division’ is no exception.
This being the Glaswegians 10th, they have got the formula worked out pretty well, just take four tracks from the recording sessions of your most recent incredible album (Hardcore will never die but you will). This proving that the leftovers can be just as, if not more, delicious.
‘Earth Division’ begins with ‘Get to frame’, a sombre piece with very gentle piano on top of string arrangements that would keep Hans Zimmer giddy. If Tim Burton ever buys an ice-cream van ‘Get to frame’ would have to be the jingle.
Then comes ‘Hound Winter’, a power-free power ballad with yet more well structured string arrangements and a rare vocal performance which lifts the song beautifully, really showcasing Mogwai’s ability to do more than just give it the beans.
‘Drunk Crazy’ is Mogwai with their foot back on the gas with some very subtle and well crafted guitar changes over the backbone of piano and strings which keeps the madness under control allthough you get the feeling they’re finding out how it goes as you do.
‘Does this always happen’ finishes off this EP with a ‘less is more’ motto in it’s DNA leaving you ask yourself what a Mogwai acoustic record be would like and if it would tick all the usual boxes that fans expect. This feast for the ear drums that is ‘Earth Division’ is a good start.
By Brendan Miller (aka Mad Laugh Graph)
