New music review with Mock Media and Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark

Our weekly fix of the best new music as Julia Mason brings us her review of new singles from Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark and Mock Media

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Artist: Mock Media

Track: Modern Visions

Credit Mock Media

Mock Media comprises Garnet Aronyk (of Crack Cloud), Bennett Smith (of N0V3L), Austin Boylan (of Pottery) and Evan Aesen (of Painted Fruits), and they have released their debut single Modern Visions via Meat Machine Records.

With such an esteemed background this was always going to be an intriguing listen, and it doesn’t disappoint. Modern Visions bounces along from the get go, but with that slightly off kilter rhythm which is so appealing. Of the track Aronyk says: "I think it addresses a common theme through our music. It reflects on trying to understand violence and chaos throughout different corners of the world, and not being overcome by nihilism.”

The theme may be dark but it is wrapped in an instrumentation and pace which is thrilling. Perhaps confronting these issues in such an uplifting wrapper allow for acceptance and hope. The four-piece grew up and met in Vernon, British Columbia, a small farming town surrounded by blue lakes and majestic mountain ranges. However to learn that it is DIY experimentation and high-wired punk rock stylings that serve as Mock Media’s framework, only results in a fascination to see what they do next as a creative statement on the challenges of life.

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Artist: Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark

Track: Slow Train

Photo Ed Miles

OMD will return with their first new studio album since 2017's highly praised The Punishment of Luxury. Entitled Bauhaus Staircase it is set for release on 27 October via White Noise (through The Orchard). The album is considered to be OMD's most explicitly political record to date. Andy McCluskey admits: "I rediscovered the creative power of total boredom." New single Slow Train sees a stunning return from OMD. A tub-thumping sonic exuberance, all throbbing synths and glitter ball glamour, if such a thing is possible in a soundscape. Bobbing and dancing it is pure dancefloor fodder with passionate vocals. Slow Train was producer by David Watts, who worked with Sheffield band The Reytons on their recent No 1 album What’s Rock And Roll?. He absolutely brings a sharp, exciting new sound to OMD.

"Slow Train is a bonkers song and the video is stunningly crazy!” Andy reflects. “It feels nice to be able to challenge people's expectations of the band after 45 years of creating music."

OMD have also revealed details of their return to the stage, with the band taking to the road next year. Across January, February & March 2024, OMD will play 40 dates in Europe, UK & Ireland, including their biggest ever London headline show at London’s O2 Arena on March 24th, 2024.

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