Biffy Clyro – Opposites

Biffy Clyro are back on the scene with their new album Opposites and prove they still hold the credentials of old. The Scottish three-piece have grown in recognition through nothing but hard work and constant gigging. The band’s ability to transform their proggy post-hardcore sound over the years, into something that has become tangible to the pop charts, is nothing short of commendable. Their songs have even featured on shows like X Factor, truly indicating how recognisable and accepted they have become.

Opposites is a conceptual LP that comes packaged in two separately named CDs: The Sand at the Core of Our Bones and The Land at the End of our Toes. The former seems to touch on darker subjects of addiction and problematic relationships, whereas the latter looks at a far more promising outlook. Perhaps predictably however, it is the first CD which is more instantly accessible, focusing on a more eclectic delivery, matched with great pop songwriting.

The first disc contains Black Chandelier, leading single of the double album. It is truly a well-crafted rock song written about the dysfunctional relationship between singer Simon Neil and his long-term girlfriend. The track embodies the recent songwriting formula of the group on previous albums – a formula that is helping to widen their global appeal. Sounds like Balloons and Opposite follow suit in that respect with impressive sing-a-long moments.

The second disc contains Modern Magic Formula and Victory Over the Sun, and seems to revisit the hard edge of their earlier sound. However to Biffy Clyro, conveying happiness involves experimenting with strange ideas that appear alien to their original style. That is what they do in songs like Spanish Radio and Pocket, playing with quirky ideas that do catch the attention of the listener.

Biffy Clyro have a record here that is a mix of everything they have learned to do best. There are hard rock tunes with thrashing guitars, thumping drums, and ever-evolving time signatures, next to ballads with sentimental meanings and a simple record selling format. Overall Opposites is well produced and shows how far the band has come. Usually double albums can be a long-winded affairs however this is enjoyable throughout.

Verdict: •••

Samuel Mensah

Opposites is available online and in shops now. For further information on Biffy Clyro, click here.

Watch the video for Black Chandelier here: