Theres a school of thought that says music can and should be an escape. I kind of see that. Like I love Poison but no one thought that songs like “I Want Action” were social commentary.
There are others, though that want to reflect the world around them, their existence. Their version of the human condition.
Steve Logan is one of the latter group.
The first song of his I heard was “Jesus Is My Vaccine”. Religious nonsense it is not, indeed it excoriates the bible thumping Fools who wear MAGA caps (literally or metaphorically) around the world.
And Logan isn’t stopping there, rather his latest album, “Psych Ward” emerges with “Rock Star Sideshow” is a compelling opener, drawing unavoidable comparisons to the Manic Street Preachers. However, the the album as a whole transcends that name, proving far from a sideshow and, instead, a poignant exploration of societal complexities.
“Psych Ward” delves into the matters of resonating significance. Much like the Manics’ “A Design For Life,” “The Sky Inside Your Mind” begins with a Barack Obama speech, injecting a dose of cynicism into the narrative.
Channeling fellow Welsh artist Martyn Joseph, Logan skillfully chronicles the world around us, expressing seething anger in tracks like the brilliant aforementioned “Jesus Is My Vaccine.” The sense of despair is palpable in “Orwell,” as Logan laments the widespread misunderstanding of Orwellian concepts.
The album’s inclination towards the harsher side is evident, even in the title track. Amidst the searing lyrics, it’s worth noting the exceptional musicality, showcased in tracks like “Dying In A Mirror.”
While most of the album carries a charged energy, a rare moment of melancholy surfaces in “Simple Pleasures,” where Logan mourns the loss of once-enjoyed simplicities.
“Empthy Baby” elevates the anthem, embodying Logan’s empathetic core. In the de facto state of the union found in “Shield Of Achilles,” he asserts, “human kind cannot take too much reality,” leaving listeners with a thought-provoking reflection on the intricacies of our existence.
Logan’s ability to seamlessly blend acoustic and electric sets shines through, creating a sonic tapestry that reflects both the artist’s empathy and a fierce critique of the world. In this album, he invites listeners on a thought-provoking journey, where every track serves as a chapter in a compelling narrative of our times.
Steve Logan is a lifer in this game. One of those artists I love that’s not in it for the money and the fame, but just because he loves it – and crucially has something to say. “Psych Ward” is crazy good.
Rating 8.5/10
REVIEW: STEVE LOGAN – PSYCH WARD (2024)
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