Black Country, New Road have released their latest single, ‘Besties’ on Ninja Tune.
A stirring single, that excites with a vibrational tension. Rising from the beginning, with its use of, what I believe, is a harpsicord – the sort of instrumental addition that belongs perfectly to Black Country, New Road – rising with intensifying velocity before that burst of flavour as the other elements lurch into the song, before breaking into the delicate introspection of the sung-lyrics. It seems at odds to even describe the genre(s), to which this song lends itself, so I shall borrow the self-described label of ‘chamber folk pop’, a fitting amalgamation of tendencies, or sensibilities which signifies the vast and impressive range of influence and ability available to Black Country, New Road.
A truly fitting return, showcasing all that is loved about their music, and their continued faculty for flourishing and musical growth. A song firmly rooted in the foundations of friendship and connection. A song you will want to dance around, or sing along to, with those whom this song signifies, creates mental images of, activates memories of, for you. Both melodic and experimental, subdued and expansive, ‘Besties’ is an indication of where Black Country, New Road are now, all that that they have learnt and now what they are willing again to share.
The song offers an insight into a particular form of connection, or relationality. “It’s about creative flow, the importance of, and commitment to, female friendships in your twenties,” says Ellery. Filled with gestures of kindness and embodied acknowledgement; the filling of cups and the helping getting ups. Offering assurance and ears, protecting friends and laughing together. Relaying, to what personally appears as discourses, on the capability and possibilities of ‘friendship’ (read – Maria Lugones to explore). The music thus exists as a point of departure, to instigate feelings and thoughts, breaching the boundary of its initial existence.
With the announcing of this single, also comes the awaited announcement of a world tour. And, if the song itself, doesn’t quite excite enough, as it should, then check out the excellent, both humorous and touching music video for ‘Besties’, directed by Rianne White. With more songs sure to come, there is joy and celebration to found in following, Black Country, New Road as we witness the spectacle of this group of friends and their singular sound; the always exhilarating, ever compelling and thought-provoking music they create.
‘Besties’ is the first single from new album ‘Forever Howlong’ out April 4th via Ninja Tune.
Photo by Eddie Whelan
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