Exploring the Depths of Cowards: Squid’s Latest Album
A Queasy Overview Effect
Like a surveillance drone pulling away from Earth, Squid’s music evokes a disorienting sense of the overview effect—a feeling of seeing and feeling an overwhelming amount all at once. Emerging as one of the most innovative voices in British guitar music throughout the 2020s, the five-piece band continues to push boundaries with their latest offering, Cowards. Released as their third album in just four years through Warp Records, this album expands their thematic exploration more than ever before.
From Bright Green Field to O Monolith
Squid’s journey began with their 2021 debut LP, Bright Green Field, a fervent post-punk critique of capitalist monotony and the rise of far-right politics in Britain. Their 2023 follow-up, O Monolith, took a broader approach, placing the visceral moments of their debut within a larger social framework. This album delved into police violence, ancient British folklore, and even the UK’s complex relationship with rats, showcasing their ability to weave intricate narratives.
Cowards: A Dark Fairytale
Cowards can be perceived as the climactic chapter in a twisted trilogy. In this album, Squid significantly broadens their scope, addressing the concept of evil itself. Their kaleidoscopic post-rock sound refracts humanity’s darkest impulses—cowardice, apathy, greed, and bloodlust. Lead vocalist and percussionist Ollie Judge describes this work as “like a book of dark fairytales,” encapsulating both a menacing and opulent auditory experience.
Shape-Shifting Soundscapes
One of the defining characteristics of Squid’s music is its metamorphic energy, where songs transition from one form to another in unpredictable ways. On Cowards, this transformative quality is more pronounced than ever. The track “Blood on the Boulders,” which narrates the infamous Manson murders, exemplifies this approach, oscillating between discordant screams and a haunting whisper reminiscent of the oppressive California heat. Additionally, the two-part composition “Fieldworks I” and “Fieldworks II” juxtaposes whimsical harpsichord melodies with ticking percussion, creating an enveloping atmosphere of dread.
Antiheroes and Dark Narratives
Judge’s lyrics often spotlight an antiheroic figure—a brutish, Old Testament-style deity who serves as a counterbalance to the mischievous musical elements. In “Building 650,” a catchy guitar riff intertwines with the tale of a “nice guy” named Frank, revealing the complexities of human relationships. Meanwhile, “Crispy Skin” unfolds over shimmering synths, exploring a society driven to cannibalism, with Judge’s chilling lyrics narrating the ease of consuming human flesh. The explosive track “Showtime!” critiques the manipulative nature of fame through the lens of a Warhol-esque character, with Judge’s smoky vocals prowling across glitchy electronics and pulsating strings.
Conclusion
Squid’s Cowards stands as a testament to the band’s relentless creativity and ambition. By delving into the darker aspects of human nature and expanding their thematic horizons, they have crafted an album that is both a culmination of their previous work and a bold step into new territories. With its intricate soundscapes and thought-provoking narratives, Cowards is not just an album; it’s an experience that challenges listeners to confront the uncomfortable truths of existence.
FAQs
What themes are explored in Cowards by Squid?
Cowards explores themes of evil, cowardice, apathy, greed, and bloodlust, presenting a dark narrative through its music and lyrics.
How does Cowards compare to Squid’s previous albums?
This album expands on the themes established in Bright Green Field and O Monolith, focusing on broader societal issues and the darker aspects of humanity.
What is the musical style of Cowards?
Cowards features a blend of post-rock, post-punk, and experimental sounds, characterized by shape-shifting song structures and dynamic instrumentation.
Who is the lead vocalist of Squid?
Ollie Judge serves as the lead vocalist and percussionist for Squid, contributing to the band’s distinctive sound and lyrical storytelling.
What is the significance of the album’s title, Cowards?
The title reflects the exploration of cowardice and human flaws, setting the tone for the album’s dark fairytale-like narratives.
