SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: THE THE – ENSOULMENT

THE THE
ENSOULMENT
CINÉOLA/EARMUSIC

The wait is finally over!! After nearly 25 years, The The has finally released a new album titled Ensoulment and what a gloriously exciting return it is. Picking up right where they left off, The The delivers another spectacular album.

Matt Johnson’s storytelling and voice continue to be as captivating and compelling as ever. His commentary on the current state of dating and searching for love in “Zen & The Art of Dating” is poignant, somewhat bleak, and often witty. With “Down By The Frozen River” his vivid imagery combined with the hauntingly beautiful and moody instrumentation is mesmerizing. Johnson’s voice is incredible throughout the entire album. With “I Want To Wake Up With You” and “Some Days I Drink My Coffee By The Grave Of William Blake”, his unique voice is on full display.

Ensoulment also has some incredible instrumentation, namely from the horns and fiddle. Highlights include “Kissing The Ring Of POTUS” and “A Rainy Day In May”. In the former, horns soar in a very cinematic and transcending climax. There is a banger of a guitar riff along with the horns, too. The usage of the fiddle in the latter hits you in the soul; it is so beautiful.

“Linoleum Smooth To The Stockinged Foot”, and “Cognitive Dissident” are two tracks that stand out. Both are masterpieces like “This Is The Day” and “Uncertain Smile”. The former feels like it belongs in a horror movie with its uneasy, suspenseful, and eerie atmosphere, Johnson’s dark and brooding voice, and thrillingly entertaining instrumentation. The latter is just as exceptional of a track. Johnson’s vocal flair is sensational, and the rhythm and flow of his voice are enthralling on this track. Plus, it has a highly memorable chorus and a super catchy and bouncy bassline. Chances are one of the songs will be in your top five favourite The The tracks.

Ensoulment was one of my most anticipated releases of the year, and it did not disappoint. Fellow fans of The The will most likely feel the same, and the album may even win over some new people.

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