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For long-time bandmates Ming Nagel (lyrics, vocals) and multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Jon Read, former trumpet player for The Specials, Project Blackbird marked a more focused musical direction. In 2018, with a new name, a pared-back line-up, and a darker, more electronic vibe, they released their debut album Endurance to quietly fervent word-of-mouth acclaim. Now, the band brings you their second album, which was recorded remotely and/or through social distancing, during the lockdowns of 2020…
The titular track ‘If This Is The End’ opens up this very rich curation of 13 tracks. Featuring distorted guitar and a Beth Gibbons style vocal from lead singer Ming, this is a humbling and haunting song. Verse 2 begins with the introduction of percussion as the track gains momentum, pulling you into the world of the album. There is a message of optimism; ‘be brave… hold yourself close’.
‘Baby Giant’ has an ethereal, experimental intro before launching into a reggae-tinged rhythm section. This is an unusual fusion of multiple genres – there are glimpses of Massive Attack here and Dire Straits there. A raucous electric guitar solo will grab you by surprise, as will a French-sounding accordion which adds a filmic quality. Project Blackbird are demonstrating excellent musical craftsmanship throughout this album that’s for sure.
A stand-out track for us is ‘Laissons Cela Entre Nous’ which has a brilliant video to accompany it. It shows the band performing on stage in a room loaded with tension and suspense. There’s a girl reading a book; a hooded man wearing glasses; an unusual dancer; a couple pondering a mini world globe at their bar table… There’s something eerie about the video, and much like the track it will have you on the edge of your seat. Lead singer Ming walks away from the stage at the video’s end and out the exit door, as another version of herself follows. A little spooky…
‘The Handle of the Spade’ is a melancholic track with minimal instrumentation; it remains suspenseful throughout with a longing in the vocal and lyric, as well as in the echo of the guitar and within the brooding string arrangement. The song evolves gradually before erupting for the last third into a rich musical tapestry, unifying all of the components we hear throughout.
The Specials’ very own Lynval Golding makes an appearance in track six. This is a feel-good duet with Ming, which has gorgeous soulful vibes. There’s also a bit of spoken word thrown in which adds all the more depth and showcases Ming’s versatility as a vocalist.
‘Indecision’ includes some electronic synth production elements and synth pads meshed with rock guitar. Once again, the band deliver their own sophisticated shade of genre-twisting music. After the gentle instrumental lull of ‘The Archivist’, the album erupts into a trippy song with attitude. This one has an insanely long title. Amazing horn instrumental moments here; it’s pretty damn wondrous. The album’s penultimate track ‘Letter No.5’ is a dreamy soundscape that plays like a lullaby of sorts. Casual drums join the mix midway and we begin to sway.
Enjoy this album best from start to finish; it is sure to take you on a journey from track 1 through to the gentle, reflective tone of ‘Let Love’. This is something to savour and defies the quick throwaway culture of single releases in favour of something much more cohesive. We can only imagine Project Blackbird are incredible to watch live; we look forward to hopefully seeing them sometime, somewhere, soon!
Project Blackbird’s second studio album ‘If This Is The End’ is available now to stream & download on the major digital platforms. You can also purchase physical copies via their Bandcamp page.
Watch the video for ‘Laissons Cela Entre Nous’ here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NelhmznQC0o
