The enigmatic Morrissey, once a revered lyricist, has unveiled his latest album, 'Make-Up Is a Lie', to a divided audience. This review delves into the intricacies of the record, exploring why it falls short of the artist's former glory.
The Backlash Against Individuality
Morrissey's recent live performances have been marred by controversial statements, such as his claim that he's unable to release music due to the industry's intolerance of individuality. This sentiment is ironic, given that his new album, while not the long-awaited 'Bonfire of Teenagers', is a testament to his unfiltered individuality.
'Bonfire of Teenagers' was allegedly shelved due to its controversial critique of the public response to the Manchester Arena bombing. The track's bold stance against the adoption of 'Don't Look Back in Anger' as a rallying cry is a prime example of Morrissey's willingness to challenge mainstream narratives. However, this very trait has seemingly hindered the album's release.
A Three-Star, Okayish Adventure
'Make-Up Is a Lie' is a curious offering. It's a relief to fans that the album doesn't descend into the offensive territory of some of Morrissey's recent public statements. Yet, it's far from a masterpiece. The three-star rating it has received is a fair assessment, as the album is intermittently tuneful, with moments of charm and melancholy.
The record features a mix of styles, from synth-driven mid-tempo tracks to indie-pop and even indie-folk. Morrissey's voice remains a standout feature, and the guitars echo the energy of his early work. However, the lyrics have evolved from poetic melancholy to vitriol, a shift that may disappoint long-time fans.
A Mixed Bag of Themes
Morrissey's songwriting explores a range of themes. He continues his tradition of witty put-downs, but also surprises with nostalgic reflections on his childhood and tributes to gonzo journalist Lester Bangs. The latter is an intriguing choice, as Bangs' penchant for metaphor and purple prose aligns with Morrissey's own lyrical style.
The album includes rumored references to David Bowie and a sincere cover of Roxy Music's 'Amazona', showcasing Morrissey's eclectic influences. While these elements provide a glimpse of his artistic prowess, they are not enough to elevate the album to greatness.
A Career in Limbo
'Make-Up Is a Lie' is a far cry from Morrissey's work with The Smiths, but it's not entirely devoid of merit. It's more argumentative than offensive, and it may satisfy his dedicated fan base. However, it's unlikely to win over new listeners or significantly revive his career.
What's particularly intriguing is Morrissey's ability to remain relevant despite the controversies. This album proves that he's still capable of creating music, even if it doesn't reach the heights of his past work. It leaves us wondering what the future holds for an artist who has always marched to the beat of his own drum.
In conclusion, 'Make-Up Is a Lie' is a mixed bag, reflecting Morrissey's unique but polarizing artistic vision. While it may not be a critical success, it adds another layer to the complex legacy of a musician who continues to defy easy categorization.
