With news of two Manchester titans, Liam Gallagher and John Squire, collaborating for a single ‘Just Another Rainbow’ there was a sense of a storm brewing and when it emerged a self-titled album was going to follow it was clear a tornado was coming.
Neither Gallagher or Squire needs an introduction (or reinvention), two legends from arguably the two most iconic bands of a generation and if you know you know. The tunes are Mmmassive, big bangers from the off and if you’re a fan of the duo’s previous work you’ll already know if you’re going to enjoy the ride.
The album kicks off with Liam singing ‘Raise Your Hands’ and alongside Squire’s now trademark riffs and licks instantly hooks. It’s hard not to visualize the crowd waving their hands in unison and bellowing this back at the stage. Second single ‘Mars to Liverpool’ follows and by the time, LG delivers the opening lyric “Jesus Christ, about last night, I can only apologize” JS has already drawn in the listener. The track soars, with an overwhelming sense of euphoria as LG sings “here comes the feeling” and is an early favourite that sets the tone for the remainder of the album. With LG singing just take it ‘One Day At a Time’ it seems good advice from the charismatic frontman whilst the bluesy ‘I’m A Wheel’, is another highpoint slowing down the pace just enough for the listener to take stock “there’s blood in my custard, I’m misunderstood” catching the ear as the track grows and builds throughout.
Whilst the colours of the rainbow lyrics drew some criticism from fans, lead single from the joint venture ‘Just Another Rainbow’ is a belter, a calling to the masses and a statement of intent worthy of any Roses or Oasis album. Indeed, the opening riff chimes of ‘Waterfall’ before the guitar progresses towards the heavier Second Coming sound. Perhaps the lyrics are much deeper than the rainbow colours insinuate. Back at the time of The Seahorses there were rumours of the band name being “He Hates Roses”, well could John Squire be at it again with ‘Just Another Rainbow’? Maybe, just maybe the lyrics have a hidden meaning…”Just To Hear Ian Brown”. Replace the song title lyrics and the song instantly becomes much deeper. Word play aside, Squire is on fire and given time to showcase and alongside LG’s customary drawl what’s not to love? There’s enough variation to keep fans captivated and the dreamy closer ‘Mother Nature’s Song’ is beautiful, moves and touches the soul.
The resurrection is now and fans of both the Roses and Oasis will adore the results of the hybrid DNA. With the upcoming tour selling out in 30 Seconds an arena tour surely beckons and then who knows; Knebworth (again)? Rock N’ Roll is alive and with these two on stage together this definitely/maybe will be the collaboration that kicks off a whole new generation when the self-titled album is released on March 1st.
The album is now available to pre-order HERE. Physical formats include standard CD and vinyl, a Deluxe split-colour vinyl, a white vinyl stocked by HMV and select indie stores, and an Amazon exclusive orange EcoRecord vinyl.
Fans who pre-order the album from the official store by 3pm on Tuesday, January 30th will receive access to a pre-sale for tour tickets. The pre-sale will open at 9:30am on Wednesday, January 31st before any remaining tickets go on general sale from 9:30am on Friday, February 2nd.
The tour will see Liam and John lead a band completed by Barrie Cadogan (Little Barrie, Paul Weller) on bass and Joey Waronker on drums. Jake Bugg will appear as special guest on all shows except Brooklyn. The dates are:
MARCH
13th – Glasgow, Barrowland
14th – Wolverhampton, Civic Hall
16th – Dublin, Olympia
18th – Newcastle, O2 City Hall
20th – Manchester, O2 Apollo
21st – Manchester, O2 Apollo
23rd – Leeds, O2 Academy
25th – London, O2 Forum Kentish Town
26th – London, Troxy
APRIL
2nd – Paris, Salle Pleyel
4th – Berlin, Columbiahalle
6th – Milan, Fabrique
11th – Brooklyn, Paramount
Words: Bazza Mills