There is a standard trajectory of artists. A great first album with material created over a number of years and refined through many gigs. A second album that fails to hit the same mark. Then a mediocre third album as they live a life removed from the influences that sparked that first album, without the time but with the record label pressure to succeed.
By Stuart Duthie
So many, maybe most fit into that pattern. Dare I say, some of those seem to maintain commercial success despite that.
Occasionally an artist comes through where the material just gets better. Radiohead was my oft quoted example.
While I wouldn’t wish to compare YUNGBLUD to Radiohead, his new album Idols has broken the mould and achieved that growth. But maybe they come to mind because OK Computer has the type of song I like, the type that morph and grown and flow. The first track of Idols, Hello Heaven, Hello, does that too. It’s epic, but without overstaying its welcome.
Like many of the albums that I really love, it was only after a couple of listens that I was 100% sure. Those are always the best ones, you listen to it once, and are compelled to give it a second try. Then it gets under your skin. Now I simply cannot stop!
Modern artists have the benefit of standing on the shoulder of giants, and I am sure I could hear some echoes of those who went before. Perhaps a little bit of Def Leppard, some Elton John in Supermoon, which is a great end to the album and leaves you wanting more. This isn’t a criticism, it’s not a lift and drop of someone else’s song. I am not even suggesting it’s intentional, more of an added pleasure within the overall experience.
If the stage show is as well produced as the album we are in for a treat with the forthcoming tour. Hearing it live with a full rock band can only enhance this one even more!
Idols it out now and you can give it a listen below.