English experimental post-punkers Organised Scum keep their genre-bending approach in good repair on their new album, Remoan, serving up a full-course meal of jazz, noise-rock, New Wave, spoken word and a bit of psychedelia. Post-modernism is mixed with humor and serious concern. Brexit has made a mess of the UK, hence the album's title. While it sounds a bit overcrowded in classic '80s fashion, it is worth the trouble to give it a few spins to get to the gist of their method: building a wall of sound, decorated with melodic footholds and handles to give the listener something to cling onto.
Remoan has all the trappings of becoming a cult album. From the slightly provocative cover art - a mirrored image of Nietzsche contemplating life on top of a collage featuring Mickey Mouse, the bartender from the Love Boat series, 45, Elon Musk, Leon Trotsky, Tom Cruise and various other leaders of ill and (sometimes) good repute - and off-kilter songs like the repetitive Secret Stalinist and the need for a face ornament by sporting a Modernist Beard, it is clear that these musicians are not out there to please, but make people think. A powerful statement that will finds its way to avant-pop aficionado who also like to read books and newspapers.
Organised Scum:
Tom Duggins: vocals, guitar
Sean Canty: drums, percussion
Mehdy El Arabti: synth, bass
Remoan is a self-released album. It is available on the usual digital outlets.
Tracks:- Midland
- Cohen
- Mulberry Leaf
- Casement
- 1980
- Roman Shell
- Modernist Beard
- 1980 (Interlude)
- Secret Stalinist
- 12/15 Tottenham @ Post Bar
- 01/23 Birmingham @ Highbury Pub