The Maple State releases new album ‘Don’t take forever’ – Review

The Maple State, a band hailing from Manchester, has recently emerged from a 17-year hiatus with a new release titled ‘Don’t take forever.’ The album, which hit the shelves on November 7, features ten tracks that serve as a concise yet impactful announcement of the band’s commitment to both honoring their musical roots and charting a fresh path forward.

The opening number of the album, “Winner Part II,” sets the stage with a slow, melodic piano intro that seamlessly transitions into the band’s familiar, high-energy drum-driven sound. The lyrics, “I wanna be like them / maybe they wanna be like us,” pay homage to the ups and downs of the band’s career over the years, reflecting on their journey with a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for how far they’ve come.

Following this, “Zero days since last incident,” the album’s lead single, showcases the band’s new sonic direction. Lines like “I’m steady, I’m alright” and the opening verse, “I feel fine,” echo the album’s overarching theme of rebirth and growth. The instrumental break in this track serves as a nod to the band’s past while marking their evolution as artists.

“Settle down,” a track with a more subdued tempo, conveys a sense of calmness and reflectiveness. With lyrics such as “Maybe you can be my reason / to settle down / and stick around,” the song pays tribute to friendship and the enduring connections that have sustained the band throughout their journey. This sentiment of camaraderie and support is a recurring theme that runs through the album.

Moving forward, “Better than before,” explores the idea of breaking free from stagnation and embracing new possibilities. The emotive line, “I know if I’m not careful / I’ll be here forevermore,” captures the emotional depth of the track, which serves as a poignant reminder that there are still brighter days ahead.

The album’s midpoint, “No time to waste,” serves as a rallying cry against complacency and encourages listeners to seize the moment and pursue their passions. This sentiment is further emphasized in “Dead beneath the stars,” a lively track that injects a dose of energy into the album with its bagpipe and drum-infused sound.

As the album progresses, tracks like “Willow” and “There’s always money in the banana stand” introduce new sonic textures and themes, exploring feelings of longing, compassion, and kindness. The band’s experimental use of synths and electric guitar adds depth and dimension to their sound, showcasing their versatility as musicians.

The album culminates in the poignant closing track, “Vacancy,” which serves as a poignant reflection on the past and a declaration of commitment to the future. Through this final message, The Maple State expresses gratitude to their fans, celebrates their enduring friendships, and acknowledges the milestones of their career.

‘Don’t take forever’ encapsulates over two decades of musical evolution, blending old and new sounds with themes of hope, resilience, and gratitude. The Maple State’s forthcoming tour, set to coincide with the album’s release, promises to be a celebration of their enduring legacy.