Record Review: My Bloody Valentine m.b.v. vinyl record

Album Review: My Bloody Valentine – m b v

In 2013, after a 22-year hiatus, My Bloody Valentine released m b v, a follow-up to their seminal 1991 album Loveless. For a band that had essentially defined the shoegaze genre, expectations were astronomical, and the idea of capturing lightning in a bottle twice seemed almost impossible. Yet, m b v is not only a triumphant return but also an evolution that feels both familiar and daringly new.

The Sound of Dreamlike Chaos

From the opening track, "She Found Now," m b v plunges listeners into a haze of reverb-drenched guitars and Kevin Shields' trademark tremolo techniques. The song feels like a gentle reintroduction, with Shields' whispery vocals weaving through layers of shimmering distortion. It's a subtle start, but it sets the tone for an album that is as much about texture as it is about melody.

Tracks like "Only Tomorrow" and "Who Sees You" embrace the lush, swirling guitars and hypnotic rhythms that defined Loveless. Yet, there's a rawer, more organic quality to the production. The guitars feel heavier, almost tactile, and the drums—often programmed in their earlier work—carry a live, propulsive energy that grounds the ethereal soundscapes.

A Bold Leap Forward

The album's second half takes a turn into more experimental territory. "Is This and Yes" strips away guitars entirely, focusing on a looping organ motif and Bilinda Butcher's haunting vocals. It’s a moment of serene introspection amidst the noise.

Perhaps the most startling departure comes with "Nothing Is," a relentless, motorik track that feels more industrial than shoegaze. Its pounding, repetitive rhythm is both hypnotic and disorienting, showcasing the band's willingness to push their sound into uncharted territory.

The closing track, "Wonder 2," is a whirlwind of sound, with jet-engine guitars and frenetic drum programming that feel like the sonic equivalent of being caught in a tornado. It’s chaotic yet strangely beautiful—a fitting conclusion to an album that refuses to be predictable.

A Return Worth Waiting For

m b v doesn’t try to recreate Loveless, and that’s its greatest strength. Instead, it builds on the foundation of My Bloody Valentine’s earlier work, incorporating new ideas and textures while staying true to their unique vision.

The album is not without its challenges. Its dense, layered production can feel impenetrable at times, and its refusal to cater to conventional song structures may alienate some listeners. But for those willing to dive in, m b v offers a rich, immersive experience that rewards repeated listens.

In the end, m b v is a testament to My Bloody Valentine’s enduring creativity and their ability to evolve without losing the essence of what makes them so singular. It’s not just a comeback—it’s a statement.

Rating: 9/10

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