Black Country, New Road: ‘Forever Howlong’ Review - A Spellbinding Prog-Folk Journey

Explore the enchanting soundscape of Black Country, New Road's 'Forever Howlong', a transformative album redefining the prog-folk genre.

Introduction to ‘Forever Howlong’

“Do you wanna play ‘Forever Howlong’?” Georgia Ellery playfully asks in the track ‘Besties’. Initially, these lyrics seemed like just a fun nod to the title of Black Country, New Road’s long-anticipated third studio album, but they took on a deeper meaning after the mixed reception of ‘Besties’. It became a challenge: are you brave enough to listen to this new version of BC, NR without Isaac Wood?

Transitioning to New Narrators

We need to be real: this isn’t another ‘Ants From Up There’ or ‘For The First Time,’ and that’s a good thing! While Isaac Wood’s narratives had their charm, the switch to three female voices—Ellery, bassist Tyler Hyde, and keyboardist May Kershaw—provides a fresh perspective. They bring a collective resonance that Wood simply couldn’t achieve on his own. The emotionally charged track ‘Mary’ exemplifies this shared support and suffering, highlighting the trio's powerful dynamic.

Folkloric Elements and Mythical Writing

Kershaw’s ethereal vocals and folkloric storytelling weave a mythical quality into the melodrama that BC, NR is known for. Take, for instance, ‘For The Cold Country’, where she intertwines the rise and fall of a fictional knight with the innocence of a kite-flying session. The imagery of strings burning her palms, leaving them “shredded” in the trees, transforms kite-flying into something as epic as the Battle of the Somme. The rhythmic stomps of the band amplify this intensity, echoing the sound of detonating bombs.

Capturing Yearning with Emotion

Ellery shines when it comes to capturing complex emotions. On ‘Goodbye (Don’t Tell Me)’, she pairs a beautifully windswept melody with poignant lyrics, lamenting, “I’ve fallen in love with a fear I believe in.” The track ‘Besties’ encapsulates the struggles of a friendship that’s too meaningful: “Remember when I said he shouldn’t treat you that way, and are you sure? / I know I want something more.”

Rich Soundscapes and Devastating Narratives

There’s a fresh warmth enveloping ‘Forever Howlong’, but don’t confuse that with a soft touch. The narrative in ‘Nancy Tries To Take The Night’ is one of the most heart-wrenching arcs on the album. The blend of banjo and nylon guitar creates a uniquely rich tone, which is beautifully grounded by Hyde's resonant alto.

A Few Misses Along The Way

Yet, not everything hits the mark. The TikTok mention in ‘Besties’ feels slightly awkward, and tracks like ‘Socks’ and ‘Happy Birthday’ don’t quite capture the same compelling magic as the standout songs. However, it’s crucial for bands to evolve and surprise their listeners. ‘Forever Howlong’ isn’t merely a question or a game; it’s a declaration from a band that has consistently shown they’re willing to take risks.

Album Details

• Record label: Ninja Tune
• Release date: April 4, 2025

Conclusion

In conclusion, *Forever Howlong* marks a significant shift for Black Country, New Road, showcasing their evolution into a more expansive and inclusive sound. It’s a bold step forward that invites listeners to embrace change and explore new sonic territories.

FAQs

• How does ‘Forever Howlong’ differ from previous albums? This album showcases three female voices, providing a fresh narrative perspective absent in earlier works.
• What themes are explored in ‘Forever Howlong’? The album dives into themes of friendship, love, and emotional struggles, often with a mythical or folkloric touch.
• Which tracks stand out on the album? Standout tracks include ‘Goodbye (Don’t Tell Me)’ and ‘Mary’, both of which highlight the band’s lyrical prowess and emotional depth.
• Is there a notable change in the band's sound? Yes, the band embraces a more collective and female-driven sound, moving away from the singular narrative style of previous albums.
• Where can I find more music by Black Country, New Road? You can explore their discography on popular music streaming platforms.

Ready to enhance your space with some stunning art? Shop your favorite album cover poster at our store today!