Review
The Wanton Bishops, spearheaded by the visionary Nader Mansour, unveils their latest masterpiece Under The Sun. This album is not merely a collection of tracks; it’s an exploration of identity, a symphony of genres, and a heartfelt tribute to the vibrant soul of Beirut.
Nader Mansour didn’t stumble into this musical labyrinth by accident. After the release of their debut album Sleep With The Lights On, a Delta blues masterpiece inspired by legens like RL Burnside and Muddy Waters, Nader embarked on a pilgrimage to America’s deep south. There, he soaked in the roots of Mississippi blues, experiencing a musical epiphany that would shape the future of The Wanton Bishops. Returning home to Lebanon, he began to metamorphose, emerging from the Delta swamps and reflecting the craggy peaks of the Lebanese mounts.
Under The Sun is a passionate love letter to Beirut. From gutsy blues-rock to psychedelic vibes, surf-rock to dance beats, the album is a genre-defying celebration. “it’s Lebanese Rock”, Nader declares, “a new genre, a blueprint for future music. It’s not fusion, it’s confusion; it’s not world music, it’s rock music – from the world, for the world”.
The album kicks off with the bluesy foot-tapper “Don’t You Touch The Radio”, challenging clichés with enticing riffs and Middle Eastern motifs. Then comes “Beirut”, a tribute to the Lebanese capital that equal parts chugging and hypnotic, like a musical journey through the city’s rich history. Nader once shared “We’ve done her wrong, Beirut! For decades. Ripped her to pieces. Us, the people”. The track paints a vivid picture, and you can practically feel the scars and resilience of this eternal city.
“Do What You’re Told” is a track where trip-hop meets acid house. “Ya Habibi” is a track that takes you on a trippy adventure with its trippy beats and loudhailer-transmitted vocals, you’ll be hooked on the electric ride.
Things get charmingly distorted with “Gonna Be Fine”, a slow burn of bluesy goodnesss where lyrics switch between English and Arabic, keeping you captivated and slightly head-funky. “Run Run” cranks up the Middle Eastern ambience, gradually building into a spellbinding crescendo. The album bows out with “Jericho”, a beautifully intense lament inspired by the ancient Palestinian city.
Under the Sun got the down-and-dirty blues vibe, but it’s also a mysterious dance with the Middle East, complete with all its tantalizing sounds and spices. It’s the kind of album that wraps you in a warm glow on a chilly winter evening. The Wanton Bishops have crafted something truly special, a Lebanese Rock journey that’s not just for to world but from the world.