Maruja: Rituals of Sound and Fury
A Unique Live Experience
Onstage, the Manchester-based quartet Maruja engages in a series of distinct rituals that captivate audiences. Channeling the command of Moses parting the Red Sea, saxophonist Joseph Carroll gestures for the crowd to part down the middle before diving into their first song. Lead singer and guitarist Harry Wilkinson sets the tone for energy and intensity by shedding his shirt and performing pushups at the onset of “Break the Tension.” Meanwhile, drummer Jacob Hayes and bassist Matt Buonaccorsi engage in slow-motion arm movements, reminiscent of mediums guiding a séance. This interplay of sacred communion and overt masculinity encapsulates the band’s dynamic performances.
Debut Album: Pain to Power
With their debut album Pain to Power, Maruja aims to encapsulate the raw energy of their live shows and their improvisational spirit. While their ferocity largely remains intact, the album presents a disjointed listening experience, as slower tracks occasionally sputter next to more electrifying pieces.
Musical Influences
Pain to Power serves as a testament to Maruja’s diverse influences, drawing from the rich tapestry of UK music over the past decade. The band’s sound resonates with the post-punk and experimental rock scene, echoing the works of bands such as Shame, Yard Act, Black Midi, and Squid. Additionally, they draw inspiration from the vibrant London jazz community, which has fostered talents like Shabaka Hutchings, Nubya Garcia, and Moses Boyd. Wilkinson’s influences also include homegrown rappers like Lee Scott, Jehst, and Little Simz, adding to the album’s eclectic nature.
A Sonic Canvas
The most compelling tracks on Pain to Power create a mesmerizing auditory experience, akin to pigments splashing against a Jackson Pollock canvas. The album opens with the industrial punk grinder “Break the Tension,” which seamlessly transitions into an agit-jazz masterpiece as Carroll delivers belching and fluttering saxophone lines. Maruja layers spectral backing vocals, racing percussion, and trunk-rattling bass to create an unrelenting pressure that never subsides.
Standout Tracks
Bloodsport
The album opener “Bloodsport” is an exhilarating introduction, featuring Wilkinson’s rapid-fire rapping over rim shots ticking like a bomb and bass lines that hit with the weight of truck tires. “Shame so strong wanna wash away with blood,” he asserts, oscillating between steady spoken word and raw screams, drawing comparisons to contemporary hardcore bands like Show Me the Body and ’90s heavyweights Rage Against the Machine.
Addressing Political Issues
Maruja’s music does not shy away from political commentary, both in their lyrics and onstage presence. They frequently lead their crowds in chants advocating for “Free Palestine” while exploring themes of oppressive power structures. The album’s epic, 10-minute track “Look Down on Us” critiques the lords of late-stage capitalism—CEOs, tech titans, and the corporate elite. “Picking bones through their teeth caught between the meat,” Wilkinson rasps, invoking the spirit of figures like Zack de la Rocha and Johnny Rotten.
Conclusion
Maruja’s Pain to Power captures the essence of their live performances, showcasing their diverse influences and fierce energy. While the album features a mix of tempos and styles that may feel disjointed at times, its standout tracks resonate with a raw intensity that reflects their commitment to both artistry and activism. As they continue to evolve, Maruja stands poised to leave a significant mark on the contemporary music landscape.
FAQs
What genre of music does Maruja play?
Maruja blends elements of free jazz, hip-hop, hardcore punk, and alt-rock, creating a unique sound that draws from various influences.
What is the significance of the album title, Pain to Power?
The title reflects the band’s exploration of overcoming struggles and channeling pain into strength and artistic expression.
Are Maruja’s performances politically charged?
Yes, Maruja often incorporates political themes into their performances and lyrics, addressing issues such as oppression and social justice.
Who are some of the influences on Maruja’s music?
Maruja cites influences from contemporary UK bands like Shame and Squid, as well as the London jazz scene and rappers like Little Simz and Jehst.
