Released about a year ago, Mogwai’s seventh studio album had a bit of a lukewarm reception. I don’t think it isn’t an album of merit. It’s just a little schizophrenic in its approach- attempting a new direction whilst still keeping that Mogwai identity.
Album opener White Noise is perhaps a little gentle, but it gradually crescendoes into a flourish, laden with guitar fanfares. To me, it brings to mind train journeys into the city- gradually increasing dynamics as one travels deeper into the metropolis. It plays a little like a more polished version of previous album opener I’m Jim Morrison, I’m Dead.
I would argue that Mogwai’s strongest tracks are opener/closers- Consider Auto Rock & We’re No Here, Yes! I am a Long Way From Home & Mogwai Fear Satan. Unfortunately, HWNDBYW‘s opener is a bit lacking. It just never breaks out.