SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: MISTERWIVES – NOSEBLEEDS

MisterWives
Nosebleeds
Photo Finish Records

MisterWives have revamped their style and feel like an entirely new band. Their latest album Nosebleeds is much more aggressive, loud, and dark compared to their debut album, Our Own House. 

Nosebleeds has tons of exciting, angsty, and booming guitar riffs, with the energetic pop-punk “Out of Your Mind” having one of the best riffs. “End of My Rope” also features a great combination of guitars and synths.

Despite going in an entirely different direction with their sound, some songs like “Sideways”, especially the intro, feel a bit like old MisterWives but with a punkier edge.

I prefer the instrumentation of their older stuff; however, Nosebleeds has some pretty awesome moments. The retro arcade-style sound of the synths will instantly remind you of the 80s. The bass is funky and powerful, with “Trigger Pull” being a main standout. “Ultraviolet” has my favourite instrumentation on the album. The soft, delicate, and comforting guitar melody, vulnerable lyrics, and Mandy Lee’s powerful voice make it a beautifully haunting track.

Mandy Lee’s vocal work is commanding, fierce, uplifting, and sometimes full of anger. Her infectious charisma and passion make the tracks incredibly entertaining and captivating to listen to. Lee is easily one of the most underrated vocalists working today. “Trigger Pull” and “Silver Lining” are two songs in which her outstanding voice is on full display.

Nosebleeds, at times, feels basic compared to the highly original sound of Our Own House, but Mandy Lee’s mesmerizing voice and their desire to try a new sound make it a worthwhile record.

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