On the title track, there’s a line that seems to embody the whole of “But Here We Are.” Dave Grohl sings that this is real “and not an illusion.” Make no mistake: Foo Fighters are back.
I first saw them on their first tour. The old Birmingham Academy was nowhere near full whatever might be claimed these days – now they are the biggest rock band on the planet (arguably). The journey from then to now is captured in “Rescued,” with its “Is this happening now?” refrain. It’s the sort of effortless anthem that the Foo Fighters do best, and saw them fill stadiums.
There’s an understandable shadow of reflection across all of this, but it never feels melancholy. “Under You” deals directly with the death of Taylor Hawkins, injecting a poignant emotional depth, but it’s somehow uplifting. “Hearing Voices” showcases the band’s mastery of the craft, seamlessly switching to an acoustic sound. The reflection on it all can be felt in the slower pace of “The Glass.”
“Nothing At All” has a mid-90s feel in the chorus, reminding us of the band’s roots. The harmonies in “Show Me How” demonstrate their ability to create infectious melodies. “Beyond Me” features piano elements reminiscent of Elton John, adding a touch of grandeur to the album.
However, the 10-minute epic of “The Teacher” stands out, deviating from the rest of the record. When Grohl sings, “can’t stop this if I wanted to,” it sparks thoughts about the band’s journey. Regardless, it is a brilliant song that showcases their musical prowess. The fragile nature of “Rest” at the end, reminiscent of “Something In The Way,” (I can’t be the only one to think it?) until it gives way to an explosive finale.
This album is no doubt an emotional experience for the band. Doubtless, there were concerns about moving forward without Hawkins, but there’s an undeniable positivity that emanates from “But Here We Are.” From the white cover onwards, it serves as a testament to overcoming adversity.
For those who may have forgotten the extent of the Foo Fighters’ greatness or the impact their music has had on their lives, this album is a powerful reminder. It takes you back to the moments when you bought their third record on your way home from work at your new job (that might just be me, and I also bought Counting Crows “This Desert Life” – the music geek never needs a diary). Foo Fighters have become an integral part of your life without you even realising it. Almost under the radar?
And yet, here they are. And here this is.
Rating: 9/10.
