The last twelve months haven’t exactly been quiet for MuddiBrooke. Between constant gigging (which we were privy to a lot of) and the release of both “Cellar” and “ADHD”, it’s any wonder they’ve managed to find a chance to stop for breath. And with a run of shows with Wayward Sons in January and this, their latest single, their 2024 schedule so far, it would be fair to assume the answer is “no”.
Of course, if you happen to have caught the Derbyshire trio at any point last year, you’re likely to have heard “Float” during their captivating performances. It’s much less frantic than either of 2023’s releases and instead finds them in a more introspective and deliberate light. The song’s lyrics examine and reflect the freedom found in extracting you from a bad situation, it’s something we can all relate to in some form.
If you like what we do, consider joining us on Patreon for as little as £1 per month!
Right from the intro, there’s a different feeling to anything they’ve released. The subdued and atmospheric soundscape which gives way to minimalist guitar keeps the grungy and alternative tones they’re known for before the song fully roars into life, heralded by Morgan Pettigrew’s adept and confident drums, full of force without dominating the track. When Brooke’s guitar and drums do push their way to the fore on the verses, waxing and waning throughout, it creates a sense of tumult and anxiety. Whilst there is a big sound to be heard on the short but effective chorus, it feels looser and free with a sense of content. It’s matched throughout on Brooke’s vocal delivery, punctuated with defiance and acceptance.
Elsewhere, Anna Melidone’s bass rumbles along, keeping pace with Morgan’s drum work and managing to snake round Brooke’s guitar with ease. Her own backing vocals weave in and out, throughout, acting as ghostly whispers, peppered in when needed, acting like the voice in our heads as self-assurance. It’s an effect used deftly and doesn’t overstay its welcome, instead adding an extra layer to it rather than simply layering in more traditional backing vocals.
However, the true highlight of this song has always been in its finale. Approaching the crescendo with Brooke’s final screams, part anguish, part relief, it segues into a breakdown Rated R-era Queens of the Stone Age would envy. Emboldened bass and nimble drums take the driving wheel, Morgan’s drums ringing out the rest of the track like gunshots whilst the scuzzy guitar tones bring up the rear before the trinity give a final parting shot in perfect sync.
Calling this a more mature release would be an insult to MuddiBrooke’s past efforts but there is something about “Float” that hasn’t been heard in their music before now. The top-shelf production is ever-present and the new layers they’ve worked into this one has elevated a great song to the next level. There is a more complete sound to them and whilst the rawer tracks allows them to show all their grunge, punk and alternative sides to them, the slower softer tones in their music continue to be worn just as well whilst keeping it edgy and interesting. If anything, this is the band sounding more comfortable and self-assured with a hint of what’s to come.
Don’t fancy Patreon? Buy us a one-off beverage!
Header image by Jason Bridges
“Float” is released on 8th March and can pre-saved from your DSP of choice
Check out all the bands we review in 2024 on our Spotify and YouTube playlists!
MuddiBrooke: official | facebook | twitter | instagram | spotify | youtube
