Eccentricity, a word which has followed former Reuben mastermind Jamie Lenman around for some time, seems apt when considering ‘Muscle Memory’. The epic 22 tracks are split across two CDs, each providing a stage for these very disparate eccentricities.
‘Muscle’, the initial half of the record, pushes the intensity of Lenman’s sound way past any ventures he undertook while a part of Reuben. ‘Memory’, the second half of the record, delivers the polar opposite – stripping the sound back in favour of the more unusual nuances that fans of Lenman’s previous work may be more familiar with.
‘Muscle Memory’ as a whole is considerably removed from Reuben’s sound, and acts as the final nail in a coffin to a past Lenman has consistently let lie. Instead he takes the two elements that cemented Reuben’s cult status, compartmentalises them, and expands them beyond recognition.
For every heavy moment Lenman has penned in the past, ‘Muscle’ takes strides to up the ante. The opening couplet of ‘The Six Fingered Hand’ and ‘Fizzy Blood’ deliver a sharp introduction to eleven songs of terrifying pace and uncontrollable time signatures.
The relentlessness of ‘Muscle’ may come as a surprise to listeners, yet the mastery of his compositions and delivery is unquestionable. Seemingly drawing on a wealth of influences, the record flows between gritty Every Time I Die style hardcore and the ominous tones of The Dillinger Escape Plan. Standout ‘One of My Eyes is a Clock’ is as equally terrifying as it is ruthless.
Lenman has been afforded a level of indulgence reserved for those who acquire cult status, and ‘Muscle’ is an inspired result of his eccentricity. Difficult to pull off, his unashamed ferocity is brave but ultimately rewarded.
On the other hand, ‘Memory’ allows Lenman to express his creativity through a more conventional singer-songwriter approach, yet here he still finds the time to impose abundant quirks. ‘Shotgun House’ opens the second half with minimalist instrumentation, seeing Lenman showcase his clean vocals over a simple banjo. It proves indicative of things to come on the following ten tracks.
As with ‘Muscle’, ‘Memory’ flitters through styles and genres with ease (say hello to the big band on ‘Little Lives’). Once again indulgence rules the roost, but rather than sounding arrogant Lenman pulls it together with its brash nature. Despite its obvious juxtaposition, ‘Memory’ feels entirely comfortable next to its heavier counterpart – if anything both elevate the other.
All 22 tracks are powerful for very different reasons, influenced by different bands and are delivered through differing styles. For many this would be an immediate recipe for disaster, yet Lenman manages to ensure a level of coherence few could have achieved. If ‘Muscle’ is the high octane thrill ride, ‘Memory’ is the adrenaline fuelled come-down. Together, they are one mighty ride, and one of the best any artist will provide this year.
BEN TIPPLE