Glasgow Eyes

The chain of Jesus and Mary

Glasgow Eyes

Fuzz Club

March 19, 2024
Web Exclusive

By Andy Von Pip

The year is 2024 and it is something of a miracle The chain of Jesus and Mary they're still making music and defying expectations. After their explosive split in 1998, few believed that brothers Jim and William Reid would work together again, let alone deliver a cohesive and experimental album. But here they are together Glasgow Eyes, a body of work that serves as a testament to their enduring creativity while simultaneously reinforcing their iconic status.

Forget the leather pants, forget the fame and any notion that after 40 years in the game they will suddenly back down and reinvent themselves Psychocandy. Forget the predictable reunions. The Reids are now in their 60s and Glasgow Eyes it reflects a mature maturity and musical sophistication often overlooked by critics. Their signature sound is still present, but now it's infused with the eerie industrial thrum of Suicide and the robotic pulse of Kraftwerk, taking the album in unexpected directions.

Some tracks like “The Eagles and The Beatles” channel classic Mary Chain vibes with Joan Jett-inspired glam-punk, while “Mediterranean X Film” and “Silver Strings” delve into darker, cinematic territory, with the latter echoing John Barry's atmospheric stylings. “Pure Poor” is imbued with the moody spirit of “Nine Million Rainy Days” (from 1987 Darklands), while “Chemical Animal” pulsates with the band's signature dark energy. “Girl 71,” however, featuring Jim's partner Rachel Conti on vocals, offers a rare moment of optimism amid the band's penchant for embracing “the power of negative thinking.”

Glasgow Eyes it establishes the legacy of Jesus and Mary as influential pioneers, but it is more than just a nostalgic trip. It's a testament to their ability to surprise, innovate and create music that still resonates even at this stage in their career. (www.themarychain.com)

Author Rating: 8.5/10