Johnny Marr - Call The Comet (LP)

Johnny Marr's third solo album, Call The Comet, released on 15 June 2018, is a testament to his enduring artistry and ability to craft compelling music that resonates with both long-time fans and new listeners. Known primarily as the legendary guitarist of The Smiths, Marr has carved out a solo career that showcases his talents not just as a guitarist but as a songwriter and vocalist as well.

Call The Comet is a conceptually ambitious record, with Marr describing it as a vision of an alternate society. The album's themes touch on hope, change, and a sense of yearning for something better, which feels particularly poignant in today's world. Musically, it blends Marr's signature jangly guitar work with a more atmospheric and cinematic sound, creating a lush and immersive listening experience.

The opening track, "Rise", sets the tone with its driving rhythm and uplifting energy. Marr's guitar work is as intricate and melodic as ever, and his vocals carry a sense of urgency and optimism. "Hi Hello", one of the standout tracks, is a beautiful and nostalgic piece that recalls the shimmering soundscapes of The Smiths while still feeling fresh and contemporary. It's a song that showcases Marr's ability to write melodies that linger in your mind long after the music stops.

Another highlight is "The Tracers", a track that combines a pulsating beat with a hypnotic guitar riff. The song's call-and-response vocals add a dynamic layer to the arrangement, making it one of the more experimental moments on the album. "Walk Into the Sea" is another gem, with its hauntingly beautiful melody and introspective lyrics. It's a track that feels both intimate and expansive, drawing the listener into its emotional core.

The production on Call The Comet is impeccable, with Marr and his team creating a sound that is both polished and organic. The album was recorded at Marr's own Crazy Face Studios in Manchester, and you can feel the care and attention to detail that went into every track. The result is an album that feels cohesive and well-crafted, with each song contributing to the overall narrative and mood.

Critically, Call The Comet was well-received, with many praising Marr's growth as a solo artist and his ability to create music that is both innovative and true to his roots. It's an album that feels like a natural progression from his previous solo efforts, The Messenger (2013) and Playland (2014), while also pushing his sound in new and exciting directions.

In Call The Comet, Johnny Marr has created a record that is both thought-provoking and deeply enjoyable. It's an album that invites you to lose yourself in its rich textures and melodies, while also encouraging you to reflect on the world around you. For fans of Marr's work, both past and present, it's a must-listen, and for those new to his music, it's a fantastic introduction to one of the most influential and talented musicians of our time.