Glitterbug // The Wombats
The Liverpool trio graced us with their presence in 2015 after four years’ absence and released their most anthemic, pop-influenced album yet. Glitterbug is an absolute whirlwind of a record, combining modern pop with their past rugged, indie rock and featuring colourful, eventful tracks that appeal to many. Inspired by trips to LA and a long distance relationship, this album has a rom-com feel to it (ironic considering the same frontman sang “If this is a rom-com / Kill the director” back in 07), which adds a relatable touch and takes the listener on a trip from opening track, ‘Emoticons’ through to closing track, ‘Flowerball’, my personal favourite. The lyrics remain witty and creative and full of sexual innuendos, as we recognise from their previous albums, and they don’t get any deeper than every-day romance experiences. The band’s sound, however, has developed into something way bigger, more complex, layered and electronic influenced with heavier beats, whilst still maintaining the classic, upbeat, synth filled Wombats style that makes you want to get up and dance wherever you are.
Ultimately, it’s this kind of life-is-short pop energy record, combined with Murph’s well-curated sense of time and place, which helps elevate the Wombats’ Glitterbug from just a one-crazy-night soundtrack to an album that might stick with you for years to come. Hopefully.
Words by Caroline Østergaard