Crack

13/20

Back in 1978, when men were men and music was music and guitars sounded like guitars, Magazine seethed into life with Shot By Both Sides, taking the punk tempos of forming member Howard Devoto’s previous band Buzzcocks, and adding a furious, cynical edge. Throughout their output they showed a willingness to experiment and morph which placed them firmly within the ‘post-punk’ camp. Now 30 years down the line, Magazine are back with a fifth studio effort. No Thyself finds a matured Devoto preaching in almost Nick Cave-esque fashion over everything from searing guitar riffs (on opener Do The Meaning) piano-led shuffles (the slightly cringy Hello Mr Curtis) and funk-infused jams (Happening in English). In short, it’s an enjoyably odd album and a welcome return from one of the first bands of their kind.

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Words: Geraint Davies