Mayflower Madame is a psychedelic post-punk band from Oslo, Norway who comprises Trond Fagernes on vocals, guitar and bass and Ola J. Kyrkjeeide on drums and on `Insight`, their latest release the duo are joined by Kenneth Eknes on synths and Rune Overby on guitar on certain tracks. They have shared that their latest album is the most personal and emotionally hardest they`ve made so far. `Insight` is dedicated to frontman Trond Fagernes’ stillborn daughter and is bookended by two songs `Ocean of Bitterness` and `Insight for the Mourning Hours` that directly address this profound sorrow. Between these sombre pieces, the album delves into a wide range of emotions, from nostalgic reflections on lost loves to feverish depictions of escapism and catharsis.
We are led into this album by `Ocean Of Bitterness` which has a delicate haunting beauty where my Marienne is mentioned, which I assume is the name of the singer`s daughter, a respectful and liberating offering. The idea of seeking out euphoric or intoxicating experiences to escape inner turmoil, even though you know the high will eventually come crashing down is explored on `A Foretold Ecstasy` a number that has a mesmerising shimmering goth like ambience about it.
`Never Sever` rolls along and has a kind of introspective feel of dreamy self-examination and regret and seeking redemption for sins of past indiscretions. There was a sense of unease about `Marionette` a number that had a retro eighties vibe about it.
`Tightrope Walker` has a rhythmic bass and drum line with swaying synths and lingering guitar riffs that lead us through this tale of an unhealthy romance or liaison. We have in `Paint It All In Blue` lyrics about addiction and escapism when love is experienced as a drug shared on a fairly light enthralling synth backdrop.
`Queen Of The Underworld` has an illusionary almost trance like feel to it while `Crippled Crow` is a little faster paced and more brooding on possible past relationship intrigues.
This album closes out with `Insight For The Mourning Hours` which is an atmospheric contemplation on grieving and the heartbreak of loss.
`Insight` was an interesting listen and I’m sure must have been healing after the traumas that the singer has experienced and suffered in his personal life. Mayflower Madame were unfamiliar to me but this album has aroused my interest in their back catalogue.
Rating 8/10
