Album Review- Novacrow: Look at Me Now

 

Rambling Man's Reviews presents to you another offering of British rock in the guise of female-fronted Alt metal band Novacrow from Liverpool, England. The band recently released their debut album Look at Me Now, an enjoyable rollercoaster of funk, metal, and alternative rock. 

Formed in 2013, the band recorded this record during Lockdown. They have built a strong fanbase over the years with the release of two EPs, several Festival appearances, and a winner of Merseyside's Metal for the Masses competition this year.

'Look at Me Now' fuses horror influences with a dark brand of humour. The murky and tantalizing grooves of 'Shapes in the Sky' kick things firmly into gear. Lead singer Kitty Staunton seduces with her soaring vocals over crunching riffs and mesmerizing pedal effects. Next up is the six-minute 'Hollows Amour', a beautiful and haunting rock song with flamenco-infused guitar play set over clear and powerful vocals,

Novacrow makes sure each song is as diverse and unpredictable as its sound. They combine thought-provoking lyrics over strong, emotional music that engages the listener to keep listening.

The macabre 'Medusa Medusa' is a fun track that is a light-hearted take on self-image. 'Hush' is an aggressive metal track with breakdowns that will leave you with goosebumps. The track features Oceanis vocalist Joe Maryanji. I found myself enjoying this release the more I listened to it. The album grows in maturity and dynamics over thirteen unforgettable moments.

Other highlights to pick out are the self-defiant 'Not Your Mannequin' with its dark grooves and message about the media's portrayal of women after a certain age. The funky 'Frankenfiiine' is a humourous diversion from the album's heavier and deeper findings.

And finally, the ferocious 'Why Are My Dreams Always Trying to Kill Me?' sounds like a cartoonish play on Freddie Krueger wraps things up.

Overall, Novacrow produces a refreshing approach to rock and metal. The band's razor-sharp riffs, songwriting, and range of vocals are a welcome addition to a scene that can be stale at times.

Words by Anselm Anderson: Rating 8.5/10

NovaCrow are;

Kitty Staunton: Lead vocals, Guitars

Freddy Spera: Bass, Backing vocals, Production

Jonyx: Additional Vocals (lead vocals on Frankenfiiine), Guitars

Stu: Drums

Tracks:

Shapes in the Sky

Hollow Armour

Medusa Medusa 

Hush (Featuring Joe Maryanji of Oceanis as additional vocals)

Play My Game

Not Your Mannequin

It’s Alive

Frankenfiiine 

All I See Is Her (featuring Jack Batchelor on congas/additional percussion)

Torn to Pieces

Day Break

Why Are My Dreams Always Trying To Kill Me?

My Virtues (featuring Robyn Wilkinson on cello)

Listen to 'Look at Me Now' below;