True Brew is the eighth album from Millencolin. It was released in 2015, eight years after Machine 15.
Please allow me to take a few moments to pontificate about Millencolin's lyrics, because for me they are a big part of what distinguishes them from the thousands of other pop-punk bands. Firstly, there's the language itself: while there's nothing grammatically incorrect, the unusual phrasing and quirky analogies are a wonderful novelty.
As for the meaning behind the lyrics, Pennybridge Pioneers and Home From Home are often dripping in either fragile humility (eg Penguins & Polarbears from Pennybridge Pioneers) or motivational poster-style positivity (eg Fingers Crossed from Home From Home). Perhaps it's the language oddities that prevents the latter from sounding trite? Anyway, both of which were a brilliant match for their catchy pop-punk style. The next two albums took the more usual punk-rock stance of angry energy, which although less unique still resulted in some great songs. However, I am delighted that True Brew is a return to the humility/optimism lyrics, because these are unique Millencolin treats.
Enough rambling, on to the songs...
Egocentric Man is a great opener, with some great pop hooks and strong emotions in the self-effacing lyrics.
Chameleon is quite similar (although perhaps that could be said for all Millencolin songs!) and also features a great chorus, but I find the verses to indistinctive. On the other hand, Autopilot probably only differs thanks to the unique breakdown of the chorus, yet I totally dig that song.
"Motivational poster" rock is at its finest for Bring Me Home. It's kinda like Good Charlotte in that there's nothing too meaningful, but.. well...it's great catchy fun.
Perhaps a quirk of punk-rock being such a tightly defined style is that I really enjoy Autopilot Mode but Wall Of Doubt leaves me totally cold. They are very similar songs, so I have no idea why there would be such a difference in reaction!
However, the explanation for Silent Suicide being so forgettable is plainly obvious- the chorus isn't the centrepiece that the song needs it to be.
Sense & Sensibility is an interesting exploration of the issues of compassion and narcissism. With a thumping million-miles per hour punk-rock backdrop. Brilliant.
The unusual, moody rhythm guitar style gives Mr Fake Believe a nicely sparse element to it. And the chorus, when it is finally revealed, is perhaps all the better due to the anticipation of its arrival.
Finally, Believe In John is another case of vintage Millencolin- wonderfully spiritual lyrics contrasting and complimenting a manically energetic chorus.
Those familiar with the tracklist might have noticed the absence of the title track (True Brew)
so far. It's because I'm saving the best until last; this song features
catchiness by the bucketload, but in this case it's backed up with
profound meaning. Another highlight is the greater contrast of light and
shade between verses and chorus. Outstanding. Good Charlotte catchiness
with
profound meaning. The icing on the cake is the chorus, which is an
irresistible outpouring of energy and triumphant emotion. Millencolin
have knocked out some fine choruses over the years, and this is one of
their best. This song sums up everything that is great about
Millencolin.
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