Mastered at Abbey Road by the esteemed Frank Arkwright, Different now is the debut album from Meena.
By Graeme Smith
As well as having Arkwright on board, the Manchester-based band employed the talents of Ben H Allen (producer for Animal Collective, Deer Hunter, and Gnarls Barkley) to do the mixing.
The result is a complex and polished proposition. We get lush electronica-infused rock right from welcoming opening track Doreen. It serves as an intro for Wonder, a moody early statement of intent full of fuzzy shoegaze layers.
Other highlights include the expansive, ethereal, Goldfrapp-esque Cast, dreamy title interlude Different now, the percussive and atmospheric Creation, the pulsating Even Say, and the slow-burning How Far. The latter lingers beautifully, staying with you long after it’s over.
By the time you arrive at experimental album closer Peter you feel like you’ve been on a wonderous and emotional journey.
One of my favourite discoveries through York Calling has been the Los Angeles, USA-based band The Loud Bangs and I’d certainly be happy mentioning Meena’s name alongside theirs. They have a similar style and inventiveness that makes their debut album feel like a breath of fresh air.
Different now is out now, available to buy on vinyl through Bandcamp. You can listen to it below.