By David O’Neill
Having followed Those Damn Crows since 2015, the opportunity to review the new album was always going to be an option if offered. The new kings of the Welsh rock scene will once again capture the hearts and minds of rock enthusiasts and the “Crow Family” with their latest album, ‘God Shaped Hole’. This opus is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to the band’s evolution and their ability to channel raw emotion into electrifying music. Released at a time when the world is yearning for authentic rock energy, ‘God Shaped Hole’ delivers on every front, showcasing a harmonious blend of powerful vocals, gripping lyrics and masterful instrumentation.
The album opens with the explosive track ‘Dancing With The Enemy’, a perfect introduction to the band’s signature sound. From the very first note, listeners are thrust into a world of anthemic rock, where each bassline and chord reverberates with intensity and purpose. The lyrics speak to the feeling of being on the fringes, resonating deeply with those who have ever found themselves alongside people who could be considered “enemy”. The thumping basslines of Lloyd Wood alongside the drumming of Ronnie Huxford underpin the heavier sound but the guitar parts of Dave Winchurch and Ian “Shiner” Thomas continue to provide the typical “Crows” sound underneath Shane Greenhall’s singing.
‘Glass Heart’, the second track and one of the single releases, gives the honesty and exposure that usually accompanies any of the emotional meanings from Shane Greenhall. It also delivers another audience participation session for the live performances it is gong to get. The upbeat melodies, combined with Shane’s soulful voice, belies an atmosphere of introspection and contemplation. This song, like many others on the album, showcases the band’s lyrical prowess and ability to convey complex emotions through music.
‘Fake’ opens like a Bond theme with a huge introduction, before slowing to deliver the lyrical message. It is a standout track that combines gritty guitar riffs with a pulsating rhythm section. The infectious chorus is bound to become a live show staple, inviting fans to sing along and lose themselves in the music. This track exemplifies the band’s knack for creating memorable hooks that linger long after the song has ended. It could easily be a new Bond theme if a huge orchestral section was added at the breakdown, it has that feel to it.
‘Dreaming’ has a real upbeat and positive feel to it, the band have a knack of writing songs that connect and express common emotions that ordinary people experience. It is beautifully mixed and permits the soulful vocals of Greenhall to reach their audience with clarity. The guitar solo at the breakdown is definitely reminiscent of many ’70s summer solos. This could be a summer hit for the band and make that crossover into wider arenas.
‘Lets Go Psycho’ was another of the single pre-releases that had many live audiences doing just that. It’s a banger. Taking a slower track like ‘The Night Train’ once again shows the versatility of the musicians and songwriting and it should find its way onto a setlist. The guitar solo at the breakdown is beautifully underpinned by the airy ?mandarin riff and it carries to the crescendo.
Boom Boom Bang Bang, Wake up! ‘Turn It Around’ doesn’t give you time to enjoy ‘The Night Train’ too much. Its another huge track. Breathless! Don’t take a breath yet though, ‘Spit And Choke’ grabs you by the ears and shakes your head with a rapidfire drum beat that Ronnie must have been exhausted by! Another powerful demonstration of song writing.
Is it time to take another breath yet? Well of course it is. ‘Still’ is another soulful ballad that I heard at the December headline gig in Cardiff that had 7000 torches lit and not a few dry eyes in the audience. Performed over an acoustic guitar is a change for Shane but it was stunningly performed then and the addition of a string section under the outro adds to the emotion of the track.
All the tracks have emotional content that delve into themes of struggle and perseverance. These songs highlight the band’s ability to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity and honesty. The raw emotion in Greenhall’s voice, coupled with the soaring instrumentation, makes for a truly moving listening experience.
One of the most striking aspects of ‘God Shaped Hole’ is the meticulous production quality. Each track is expertly crafted, with layers of sound that create a rich and immersive auditory experience. The band’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the album, from the crisp guitar solos to the thunderous drum/bass patterns and its emotional connectivity.
The production, helmed by renowned producer Dan Weller, ensures that every instrument shines. The bass lines are robust and driving, the guitars are sharp and resonant, and the drums provide a solid foundation for the entire album. This level of craftsmanship elevates the album, making it standout.
Shane Greenhall’s vocal performance on ‘God Shaped Hole’ is nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to convey emotion through his voice is unparalleled, drawing listeners in and making them feel every word he sings. Whether he’s belting out high-energy anthems or delivering poignant ballads, Greenhall’s voice is the heart and soul of the album.
Tracks like ‘Fake’ and ‘No Surrender’ showcase Greenhall’s vocal range and versatility. His dynamic delivery, combined with the band’s powerful instrumentation, creates moments of pure musical magic. It’s clear that Greenhall has once again poured his heart into this album, nowhere more so than on ‘Still’ and his passion is palpable in every track.
‘God Shaped Hole’ is a triumph for Those Damn Crows, cementing their status as one of the leading forces in contemporary rock music in the UK. The album’s powerful themes, exceptional musicality, and unforgettable vocal performances make it a must-listen for any rock enthusiast. Each track offers something unique, ensuring that the album remains engaging from start to finish.
The band have delivered an album that not only showcases their growth as musicians but also reaffirms their commitment to creating authentic and impactful music. God Shaped Hole is more than just an album; it’s a journey through the highs and lows of the human experience, set to the backdrop of electrifying rock music.
In a world where music often feels manufactured and soulless, God Shaped Hole stands out as a beacon of genuine artistry. It’s a testament to the power of music to connect, inspire, and heal. So, turn up the volume, let the music wash over you, and get ready to be moved by the incredible talent of Shane, Dave, Lloyd, Ronnie and Shiner.
It’s a rave from Dave!
- ‘God Shaped Hole‘ is released today (Friday 11 April).
- Those Damn Crows headline the Steelhouse festival on Sunday 27 July and then tour in October:
They also play The Limelight, Belfast on Thursday 6 November.