UK punk pioneers The Damned have made a triumphant return with their new studio album 'Darkadelic,' 46 years after their groundbreaking debut. Produced, engineered, and mixed by Thomas Mitchener, known for his work with La Roux, Tyler, The Futureheads, and The Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster, 'Darkadelic' showcases the band's enduring musical evolution. While staying true to their signature gothic-flavored drama, the album explores intricate instrumental dynamics and textures, reflecting the creative synergy of the current lineup. With their new album, The Damned continue to push boundaries and demonstrate their unwavering relevance in the ever-evolving world of punk music.
What Worked
Legends of the goth punk sound, Captain Sensible, Dave Vanian, and crew are back with a dozen solid tracks that stay true to their sound with plenty of catchy hooks. From the Elvis meets Stooges energy of "Follow Me" to the garage rock rave-up of "Bad Weather Girl," there is no shortage of high voltage on Darkadelic. But what has always made The Damned special is their attention to melody as much as volume, like the sugary melody of "You're Gonna Realise" or the chugging "Beware The Clown."
What Didn't Work
Never given the due of their contemporaries in the 70s like the Sex Pistols, the band only falters when they play it safe, like on the less aggressive "Leader of the Gang" or goofy piano and string closer "Roderick."
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