Album Info
| Artist: | Manchester Orchestra |
| Album: | A Black Mile To The Surface |
| Released: | US, Aug 2022 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | The Maze | |
| A2 | The Gold | |
| A3 | The Moth | |
| A4 | Lead, SD | |
| B1 | The Alien | |
| B2 | The Sunshine | |
| B3 | The Grocery | |
| C1 | The Wolf | |
| C2 | The Mistake | |
| C3 | The Parts | |
| C4 | The Silence |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
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Description
Manchester Orchestra's album "A Black Mile to the Surface," released on July 28, 2017, is a stunning exploration of personal and collective struggles, wrapped in a sound that is both expansive and intimate. This album marks a significant evolution for the band, showcasing their growth not just in musicality but also in lyrical depth. The record has been well-received by critics and fans alike, earning a spot on numerous year-end lists and solidifying Manchester Orchestra's place in the contemporary rock landscape.
From the very first track, "The Maze," listeners are drawn into a world that feels both haunting and hopeful. The production, helmed by the band’s frontman Andy Hull and longtime collaborator Catherine Marks, is lush and atmospheric, creating a soundscape that perfectly complements the introspective lyrics. The album's themes revolve around loss, identity, and the search for meaning, which resonate deeply in today’s tumultuous world. Hull's songwriting shines as he navigates these heavy topics with a poetic touch, making the personal feel universal.
Standout tracks like "Lead, Sadness" and "The Gold" showcase the band’s ability to blend powerful instrumentation with poignant storytelling. "The Gold" is particularly noteworthy, with its anthemic chorus and driving rhythm that invites listeners to sing along while grappling with the weight of its message. The juxtaposition of uplifting melodies with darker lyrical content is a hallmark of Manchester Orchestra's style, and this track exemplifies that beautifully.
Critics have praised "A Black Mile to the Surface" for its ambitious scope and emotional resonance. Publications like Pitchfork and Rolling Stone highlighted the album's intricate arrangements and Hull's evocative vocal delivery. Pitchfork described it as a "masterclass in emotional storytelling," while Rolling Stone noted that the album feels like a journey through the complexities of life, making it relatable to a wide audience. The album has also garnered nominations for various awards, further cementing its impact in the music industry.
One of the most interesting aspects of the album is its conceptual nature. Hull has mentioned in interviews that the album is a reflection of his own experiences and the stories of those around him, particularly focusing on the struggles of his hometown in Georgia. This personal connection adds a layer of authenticity to the music, making it feel like a shared experience rather than just a collection of songs. The band even incorporated elements of their live shows into the album, creating a sense of continuity between their performances and the recorded material.
The album's title, "A Black Mile to the Surface," is a metaphor for the journey through darkness to find light, which resonates with many listeners who have faced their own challenges. This theme of resilience is woven throughout the album, making it not just a collection of songs, but a narrative that invites listeners to reflect on their own lives. The closing track, "The Silence," encapsulates this journey perfectly, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and introspection.
In terms of production, the album features a mix of traditional rock instrumentation with more experimental sounds, including strings and ambient textures. This blend creates a rich auditory experience that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. The attention to detail in the production is evident, with each layer adding depth to the overall sound.
Overall, "A Black Mile to the Surface" is a remarkable album that showcases Manchester Orchestra's evolution as artists. It’s a record that invites you to listen closely, to feel deeply, and to reflect on your own journey. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, this album is a must-listen, offering a powerful blend of emotion, artistry, and authenticity that is hard to find in today’s music scene. If you haven’t yet taken the plunge into this sonic landscape, I highly recommend you do so—you might just find a piece of yourself within its depths.