It’s safe to say Jake Bugg has been experimenting.
After announcing himself to the world with his groundbreaking self-titled album twelve (!!) years ago, and following it up with an assured, crowd-pleasing second record in Shangri La, the Cliftonian decided to take some swings - and with admittedly mixed success.
The pop/hip-hop-infused On My One certainly had some highs, but the more experimental tunes felt slightly jarring against the distinctive style he’d previously established for himself. Hearts That Strain was a pleasant enough listen, but offered little more than a relatively shallow ode to American folk.
Blending pulse-racing guitar work, the singer’s singular moany vocals and lyricism drenched in social commentary, this feels like the Nottingham icon going back to his roots
Yet with new single ‘Zombieland’, Bugg seems to be teasing a return to the trademark sound that first made him his name.
Blending pulse-racing guitar work, the singer’s singular moany vocals and lyricism drenched in social commentary, this feels like the Nottingham icon going back to his roots - and it’s a welcome return indeed.
If this high-octane single is a hint of what’s to come in the newly-announced A Modern Day Distraction, it’s safe to say it could be a strong swing back to form after the promising if slightly forgettable Saturday Night, Sunday Morning.
You can listen to ‘Zombieland’ below.
The video is by Nottingham's Rachael Halaburda.