Dan Mangan + Blacksmith – Club Meds
“Those who pretend to believe hardest might actually begin to. The nature of the bliss the warmth of ignorance gives in to,” Dan Mangan intones cynically on Mouthpiece from his upcoming fourth album Club Meds. The anthemic challenge of the status quo signals a departure from quirky folk into an electronic – acoustic exploration with his touring ensemble Blacksmith. Mangan’s edgier, politically-driven lyrics complement the darker melodies, from dystopian resignation in Offred to spirited condemnation flagged by trumpets in Vessel with Dave Grohl. The album’s unapologetic questioning resonates with eerie precision in the current climate of uncertainty and speculation. (EK)
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Written by Elyssa King
