The Notwist releases new album “News from Planet Zombie”
The journey of The Notwist over the years has been a rich tapestry of musical exploration and evolution. Originating in Germany in the late 1980s, the band started out as a blend of punk, grunge, and Euro-metal, but with each subsequent album, they ventured into new territories. From post-hardcore to post-rock, indie rock, noise, jazz, electronica, and glitch-encrusted ambient, they dabbled in various genres. Their 2021 release, Vertigo, appeared as a consolidation, showcasing a mix of fragile electro-pop and insistent motorik beats, and clarinet-infused dream-pop.
Contrary to popular belief, the fusion of guitar bands with experimental electronica did not begin with Kid A but had roots in earlier works like Portishead’s Dummy and Björk’s transition. The Notwist’s music has periodically intersected with this timeline, guiding them to explore new avenues. Their latest album, News from Planet Zombie, reveals a bold, engaging approach, capturing the essence of a band tuned in to the world’s challenges and marvels. Starting with Teeth, an atmospheric slowcore track accented with brass, and leading to X-Ray, a mix of skittering electronics and new wave keyboards, their sound is dynamic and enthralling.
Projectors showcases a different side of The Notwist with emotionally resonant acoustic folk-pop vibes, highlighting Markus Acher’s vocal prowess. Tracks like Propeller, The Turning, Snow, and Who We Used to Be strike a delicate balance between anxiety and hope, reflecting the current global state. Markus’s growth as a songwriter is evident on these introspective tracks, where he delves into the uncertainties of the present era. Closing with Like This River, the album takes a poignant, introspective turn, offering a melodic journey through themes of geopolitical strife.
News from Planet Zombie doesn’t fit the mold of a typical Notwist album, transitioning between folkier and dreamier sounds akin to American indie rock bands like The Shins or Real Estate. Surprisingly, the album includes two covers – Neil Young’s Red Sun and How the Story Ends by Lovers, imbued with futuristic and intimate tones, respectively. Through closely observed details and intricate musicality, the album solidifies The Notwist’s unique position in the music landscape, inviting listeners to delve deeper into its sonic nuances.
News from Planet Zombie by The Notwist offers a refreshing perspective on the band’s musical evolution, captivating audiences with its diverse range of sounds and thought-provoking themes. As they embark on a series of live performances across Europe, fans have the opportunity to experience the band’s latest creations firsthand. This album is a testament to The Notwist’s enduring creativity and ability to navigate through different genres with finesse and innovation, cementing their legacy in the realm of experimental and indie music.