Love ‘em or hate ‘em, no one can deny that young rockers Marmozets have set pulses racing since their inception in 2007. Despite having the average age of just 18 at the time, the group started to make themselves known with their raw, adrenaline-fuelled shows, and the release of their EPs in 2011 and 2012 garnered critical acclaim for being bold, brilliant, and ruthless. This attention gave them tours alongside Young Guns, Funeral For a Friend, Gallows, and The Used, as well as gracing stages at Glastonbury, Download, Reading and Leeds, and Slam Dunk.
And now, finally, they’re releasing their album. ‘The Weird and Wonderful Marmozets’, released via Roadrunner Records, contains tracks that simply roar to life, such as ‘Born Young and Free’. It’s an instant call to arms; gritty riffs and lead vocalist Becca Macintyre’s edgy vocals bring to mind small and sweaty venues, packed to the rafters with people singing along. Their hooks are huge, and their melodies are immense, creating the dynamic tracks of ‘Cover Up’ and ‘Is It Horrible?’
‘Particle’ is a staggering track, while title track ‘The Weird and Wonderful’ is a beautiful mess of gritty, edgy riffs, creating a dark atmosphere. The way Becca carries off her vocals doesn’t hurt either, especially when she simply sings “You’re weird and wonderful” – it’s delicious, and whets the appetite immediately.
One of the most outstanding things about this release is just how well Becca’s voice adapts differently (and incredibly well) to each and every track. Despite being toned down in energy levels, ‘Captivate You’ and ‘Cry’ are simply outstanding tracks – even with a far softer tone, her powerful vocals soar. This is a stark contrast to tracks such as ‘Why Do You Hate Me?’, which also demonstrates the spectrum of her colossal talent. Her rough screams are an absolute joy; raw, rough, and ready, they complement her energetic and staggering clean vocals.
‘The Weird and Wonderful Marmozets’ demands your attention from the opening chords, and keeps you captivated from beginning to end. It’s an exciting release, bold and rich in power, and offers something new and different with every track. There’s no denying that they’re an exciting young band, who are ruthless and chaotic in their pursuit to create music. Marmozets are constantly pushing the boundaries of the post-hardcore and math rock scene, and will excel if they continue to do so.
JESS TAGLIANI