Man/Woman/Chainsaw's debut album, 'Cannonball', is a wild ride through the realms of experimental pop, with a healthy dose of rock and a dash of shoegaze. This six-piece band from South London has crafted an album that's both playful and emotionally charged, showcasing their unique blend of genres and a knack for catchy melodies.
What makes 'Cannonball' stand out is the band's ability to balance the weird and the wonderful. On one hand, they deliver a honey-drenched, Adele-worthy ballad on 'Canyons', but then they quickly shift gears into a jarring, strings-assisted grunge assault, reminiscent of old-school dEUS. This dynamic contrast is a testament to their musical versatility and a key reason why they've been gaining traction in the music scene.
The band's live performances are equally impressive. With lead vocals shared by guitarist Billy Ward, keys player Emmie-Mae Avery, and bassist Vera Leppänen, they bring a thrilling energy to the stage. The addition of violinist Clio Starwood, Billy Doyle's scorching guitar, and Lola Cherry's purposeful rhythms creates a 12-legged beast of a band, ready to attack any stage.
One of the standout tracks, 'Nosedive', is a strutting mash-up of cinematic tension from early Arcade Fire, the pre-coming-up magic of LCD Soundsystem, and the nerdy dancefloor call of Los Campesinos. It's a festival-ready sing-along, destined to get people moving and grooving.
'Godddamn, Lizard Man!' is another highlight, offering a modern update on Nick Cave's 'Red Right Hand'. With its vampyric gothic menace, it warns of a 'funny guy' who might greet you with a kiss but is actually a bloodsucker. This song showcases the band's ability to create dark, atmospheric music that's both captivating and unsettling.
The album's diverse range of sounds continues with the hell-bound tango of 'Flick Of The Wrist', the slow-burning nightmare folk of 'Get Up And Dance', the runaway desert rock of 'The Thing', and the trip-hop exorcism of 'Something Else To Give'. Each track showcases the band's experimental spirit without veering into over-indulgence, ensuring the album remains giddily playful and emotionally direct.
In conclusion, 'Cannonball' is a highly accomplished debut that showcases Man/Woman/Chainsaw's musical prowess and their ability to create a cohesive and captivating album. With their unique blend of genres and a knack for catchy melodies, they've crafted an album that's sure to be a standout in 2026 and a strong contender for the Mercury Prize in 2027. This cannonball is making a splash, and it's one that's worth diving into.
