Billy Nomates – ‘Metalhorse’ album review: A pocket you can’t climb out of, and why would you want to?
THE SKINNY: One of the most frustrating things in music is lazy imitation. “Oh, this band are inspired by Led Zeppelin!” You don’t say? They sound like a carbon copy. It might have some musical talent on display, but it lacks any kind of creativity, and it becomes impossible to listen to as a result. We see this lazy imitation everywhere we go, to the extent that when a record finally comes out which has no shame in wearing its influences on its sleeve while still being original and unique to that artist, it’s massively refreshing, and that’s precisely what you’re going to get on Billy Nomates new album Metalhorse.
If you want my brief review, it’s this: “Damn, this is a shit hot album, you should listen to it.” However, convention dictates that I need to give you a few more paragraphs than that. These extra words are against my will, this is a record packed with emotion, enjoyable to listen to and an album that you just need to put on, move to and be moved by. The proof is in the music, not in my description of it. I have never heard an album that needs to be heard more than this, so go listen to it! (OK, two paragraphs left).
We all know Billy Nomates by now. Her self-titled debut and second album, CACTI, both speak for themselves. She has cemented herself as a great songwriter and versatile singer, not only making music for herself but also appearing as a feature for a number of other artists, too. If this album came out and was on par with those that came before it, I’d be happy, but it’s so much more, packed with energy, and features Billy Nomates’ vocals at her very best.
The heightened energy on this album is likely because it’s the first album she has made in a studio with a live band. We can never underestimate the power of a good studio, as the way these instruments bounce off one another and complement the whole album could only ever be achieved in a live setting in close proximity. The album is inspired by blues, ‘60s rock, ‘70s rock and glam. It’s a fulfilling listen and one definitely worth your time. OK, there’s the paragraphs out the way, now go put on your best clothes to twirl in and give this record a spin!
For fans of: Ordering lots of starters rather than one big main, lights that you can change the colour of from your phone, and Fleetwood Mac.
A concluding comment from Bongo The Clown’s discarded red nose, lost after a night at the circus: “Bongo might have left me behind, but these songs will forever find a place in my heart.“
Metalhorse track by track
Release: May 16th | Label: Invada Records | Producer: James Trevascus
‘Metalhorse’: The album wastes no time. Almost immediately, piano, guitar and vocals tumble over one another to create a haphazard lounge singer-esque backdrop. The guitar runs in the background sound as though they are from a ‘60s rock song, while the atmosphere feels as deep and complex as any music available at the moment. [4/5]
‘Nothin Worth Winnin’: The drums are electric, the vocals are eclectic, and the synth builds an ambience so think you could spread it on toast. It’s worth noting that Metalhorse is a concept album set in a funfair, which means the haphazard nature of the record’s continuity works incredibly well. [4/5]
‘The Test’: Steady drums and piano hits welcome us into track three, ‘The Test’. It provides a soothing instrumental that Billy Nomates’ voice glides across. Her vocals and the melody attached to them sound less like something that was written and instead are so natural they feel borderline improvised, the product of this pocket of music and the feelings experienced within it. [4/5]
‘Override’: A begrudging bassline is in full force on this track, low-rumbling and grating. Completely contrast that with the sweet-sounding Fleetwood Mac-like vocals. It’s a wonderful contradiction and gives the song a great deal of attitude. The track progresses naturally, with guitar runs and keys coming into play and adding layers to this already deep combination. [4/5]
‘Dark Horse Friend’: The sound created on this song feels somewhat drawn back. A combination of a flute and synth creates the perfect backdrop for the song, which feels like it’s brooding but also hopeful. Some of the sounds explored on this album are incredibly exciting and keep the listener wholeheartedly engaged. Hugh Cornwell’s feature on the song works wonders as well. [4.5/5]
‘Life’s Unfair’: The songs are becoming hard to describe now. It’s a soulful ballad, a glam rock classic, and a masterclass in emotive and dynamic vocals. Here’s the deal: It’s a must-listen. [5/5]
‘Plans’: I really don’t want to keep talking about these vocals, but my word, they are fantastic. This song feels like it has been dragged kicking and screaming from the ‘70s and has been released today. Just over three minutes of dynamic talent and emotion, it’s truly wonderful. [4.5/5]
‘Gas’: It’s an appropriately named song given how packed with energy it is. ‘Gas’ has a running electronic bass, oscillating synth keys and an upbeat electronic drum beat. The track glides as opposed to plays, and each second that passes is laced with perfect instrumentation and vocals. [4.5/5]
‘Comedic Timing’: The note rings out, two drum hits in every bar, the only variation is found in Billy Nomates’ vocals and the light bass that dances in the background. The sound builds incredibly naturally, having the synth match that bass in the background, light keys tapping their way through and the vocals becoming louder. It’s a masterclass in tension and suspense, as well as how to build a track in a way that doesn’t overwhelm a listener. Merely another thing that this record nails. [4/5]
‘Strange Gift’: The defining track on the album. Throughout this record, we’ve heard piano-driven rock, glam and blues music, but ‘Strange Gift’ is the one that strips everything back. We hear that even when the tracks are minimalist, what they lack in instrumentation, they make up for in soul. This is a pocket of music you can’t climb out of, and why would you? [5/5]
‘Moon Explodes’: While the gorgeous period of reflection and serenity on ‘Strange Gift’ is welcome, why not go out with a bang? ‘Moon Explodes’ gives us exactly that, as it’s a heavy, energetic and chaotic track, the kind of thing you should be closing out albums with. [4.5/5]
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