Review
IDLES' latest jam, "Crawler", is a bloody masterpiece! It's raw, intense, and has more heart than you'd expect from a punk rock band. This fourth studio album not only showcases the band's growth, but also maintains that signature emotional depth that draws listeners in. We're talking about a deeply personal record here - Joe Talbot, the frontman, dives straight into his own experiences with trauma, addiction, and loss, and the global pandemic plays a big role in shaping the album's themes of healing and finding joy in rough times.
"Crawler" starts off strong with "MTT 420 RR", a track that sets the tone for an experimental journey into sounds you've never heard before. Some fans might be divided by the new edge they bring, but it's undeniably innovative and fresh. Standout tracks include "The Beachland Ballroom", which is vintage IDLES with a twist, and "Car Crash" and "Crawl", which recount Joe's terrifying car accident and rock bottom, respectively. The album is co-produced by Kenny Beats and guitarist Mark Bowen, which lets the band push boundaries and explore new sonic territories. You feel that collaboration in tracks like "Progress", which borrows from Nine Inch Nails, and "King Snake", which challenges you to be more spiritual and accepting. - Hunter
