New album review: Garbage’s ‘Let All That We Imagine’ shows defiant rock sound

Garbage, the American rock band, is set to release their latest album, “Let All That We Imagine Be the Light,” on Friday, featuring a fusion of buzz-saw guitars, dense synthesizers, and throbbing percussion. The band, led by Shirley Manson, delivers a familiar sonic mix that aims to lift spirits and enliven the atmosphere, utilizing heavy riffing and dramatic atmospherics to complement Manson’s captivating alto vocals.

This album marks Garbage’s eighth release and follows their 2021 album, “No Gods No Masters.” The inspiration for this latest work came in August when Manson was forced to end their world tour due to a hip injury. Seizing the opportunity, the rest of the band – Butch Vig, Duke Erikson, and Steve Marker – began crafting new music in the studio. Manson then lent her lyrical talents to the project, addressing themes of fatalism, ageism, sexism, vulnerability, mortality, and the pursuit of joy, love, and empowerment.

The album packs a variety of emotions and messages, encapsulated in tracks like “Sisyphus” and the title track, with lyrics touching on profound subjects while blending influences from artists like the Shangri-Las, Patti Smith, and Evanescence. Despite moments of borderline lofty lyricism, Garbage manages to ground the album in relatable realities. Songs like “Chinese Fire Horse” exude a defiant, punky spirit that transcends generations, embodying Manson’s unwavering resolve and strength.

In tracks such as “Have We Met (The Void)” and “There’s No Future in Optimism,” Manson navigates themes of complex relationships and uncertainty about the future. The album reaches a crescendo with the powerful tandem of “Get Out My Face AKA Bad Kitty” and “R U Happy Now,” delving into gender dynamics, political disillusionment, and personal resilience. The final track, “The Day That I Met God,” weaves a tapestry of hope, faith, and pain management in a whimsical yet uplifting composition that testifies to the enduring spirit of mankind.

“Let All That We Imagine Be the Light” is a testament to Garbage’s ability to navigate both the shadows and the light, delivering a collection of songs that resonate with listeners on a visceral and emotional level. Their blend of introspective lyricism, searing instrumentation, and Shirley Manson’s powerful vocals culminates in an album that serves as a beacon of strength and resilience in tumultuous times.