`Sundiver` is Boston Manor’s fifth album and one that represents a glimmering dawn for the Blackpool five-piece and celebrates new beginnings, second chances and rebirth. Its the second part of a double album with the first instalment being the band`s `Datuna` album released in 2022.
`Datura (Dawn)` opens this release with birdsong and vocals that portray a kind of vulnerability. The track has a nervousness come apprehension about it, which maybe reflects new beginnings and anticipates what`s to follow. Lead singer Henry Cox says, `Container` “explores the idea of second chances, the panic that sets in knowing you need to change your world before it’s too late and you get swallowed up and lost forever. It’s about the stagnancy of life creeping up on you and how that can bring about change.” A fairly pounding rock number that mirrors the image of breaking free from restraints, physical or mental.
‘Sliding Doors’ has Deftones vibe going on, one of the bands` musical influences. It explores luck, the butterfly effect, serendipity, and how no matter how small our decisions or how small events are, they can have a big impact. We have in ‘HEAT ME UP’ a love song about realising that what you have is so precious you would do anything to protect it and nurture it. There`s shimmering guitar riffs and vocals that are deeply emotive.
`Horses In A Dream` is a dreamy nigh on pop offering that rolls along while `Morning Star` enjoys a drum and bass texture during its brief existence.
`While I Sleep` is at times fairly anthemic with its rhythmic drum beat and glistening guitar riffs. There`s a time out in the latter section with screamed vocals before the track continues. I wasn`t sure what `Fornix` referred to but a brief search enlightened me. The fornix acts as the primary outgoing pathway from the hippocampus, and thus its most recognized function is its involvement in memory. The number itself has a delightful searing intensity about it.
`Dissolve` has a real edginess and appears to be a promise or vow to change, if required, in order to salvage a relationship,. I read that the stripped back `What Is Taken, Will Never Be Lost` was influenced by the band Portishead and written about processing the grief felt when singer Henry Cox Grandfather passed away. A quite touching and moving eulogy.
The album closes out with `DC Mini` another number that tipped its hat to the Deftones. There`s a real power and potency throughout this introspective musing with Debbie Gough from metalcore band Heriot adding her blistering vocals on route.
`Sundiver` is a fairly varied offering and appears to be the light to the dark of the previous `Datuna`. It was a much more creative, innovative offering and in some ways emphasised a maturity to the band’s development. This album is the kind of composition that will need a few listens before it really connects and time spent will be well rewarded.
Rating 8.5/10
