M A R C – Universal Critic

Following on from their 2019 release ‘Unapologetically Rock ‘n’ Roll’ the dynamic four-piece have gone in something of a different direction on ‘Universal Critic’. This latest release comes as more of a passion piece from frontman Marc Bradley.

More of a victim of circumstance than a conscious thought to take a more solo approach to the new record. “It’s definitely a more personal EP than the last. I think it’s quite apparent from the off that the band dynamic has changed and its definitely more of a solo venture than the last” said the lead vocalist.

The pandemic has affected everyone and driven this change in the production for M A R C. The lessening of inputs on the record has allowed Bradley to take a stroll through the nuances of music production. This stripped back approach has also made way for a different sound to come to the fore as he explores the depths of the band’s sound and encourages wider influences to creep in.

Weeping piano ballads sit alongside thumping guitar anthems which create a sort-of hybrid T-Rex come slowed-down Subways sound which is a real change of pace.

There’s a delicate balance to be struck on ‘Universal Credit’. You can tell that Bradley wants to be more vulnerable in tracks like ‘Fixated’, ‘You’ and ‘Firework’. Whereas ‘Shock Fantasy Part 2’ nods to the first EP’s sound, then those 80’s-style rocks riffs come back around.

With every track you get to see a different side to M A R C in this cube-like EP. Just stick it on shuffle, roll the dice, and see which face welcomes you.

Tom Spruce