The Jesus And Mary Chain - Damage And Joy

Feb. 25

The Jesus And Mary Chain - Damage And Joy

As a band that shares part of the credit for changing the sound of rock and roll in the late 80s and early 90s, the Jesus And Mary Chain are obviously subject to a great deal of heightened expectation when it comes to this long-awaited comeback album. I think that explains why many of the reviews for this release are so low and middling, because I'm pretty sure that if any unknown band released an album like this, it would be deemed a well-made and appealing throwback album. Because it is.

Yes, it's very much stuck in the late '90s conception of psychedelic pop rock, the kind that was featured in their later, underrated releases. But since I'm a big fan of that relaxed, hazy vibe with it's dreamy romanticism and it's slow and sweet hooks, that lack of evolution in their style just doesn't bother me. As long as the songwriting is solid, it works for my ears.

Give it a try. And if you haven't heard any of this band's back catalogue, definitely seek that out too. Start at Psychocandy and go from there.

Stream in full below via YouTube.

Highlights: All Things Pass • Always Sad • Presidici (El Chapaquiditch)