Mayflower Madame – Insight (Digital/CD/Vinyl Album – Icy Cold Records / Up In Her Room / Night Cult Records)
We welcome the third album from the Norwegian band Mayflower Madame. While the four-year gap between each album might seem coincidental, it could also reflect the band’s commitment to patiently perfecting their work. That patience pays off, rewarding fans with a beautifully crafted album that leans more toward Dark-Wave than previous releases. They deliver a sound that is dark yet melodic, occasionally evoking renowned bands like Clan of Xymox, The Mission, and even Siouxsie & The Banshees in certain guitar sections. The guitar plays a crucial role in the emotional texture of these tracks, particularly in the first half, which builds upon a deep, resonant bassline. The vocals amplify the dark, seductive ambiance, enhancing the album’s mood. While the first half is especially compelling, the second half, though slightly less mesmerizing, still holds its own. This is undoubtedly Mayflower Madame’s best work and a must-discover for any Post-Punk fan. (Rating:8½).
Listen to “Tightrope Walker”:
About Mayflower Madame
Mayflower Madame is a Norwegian band formed by singer and guitarist Trond Fagernes together with his childhood friend Rune, with the lineup taking shape around 2011 when bassist Petter and drummer Ola J. joined. Synth player Kenneth became a regular recording member from the debut album onward. Fagernes is the main songwriter and also played bass on the band’s later albums. The band mixes dark post-punk and shoegaze with what it describes as “Neo-Psychedelia”.
The debut album “Observed In A Dream” appeared in 2016, followed by the EP “Premonition” in 2018 and the second album “Prepared For A Nightmare” in 2020. The third album “Insight” was released in 2024 through Icy Cold Records, Up In Her Room and Night Cult Records.
Fagernes discussed the album in an Interview with Mayflower Madame on Side-Line, in which he stated: “This is our best album so far”. “Insight” is the release reviewed here.
I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.
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