Idles

Following Brutalism (2017) and Joy as an Act of Resistance (2018), two releases that garnered global critical acclaim, IDLES return with their highly anticipated third album – Ultra Mono. Sonically constructed to capture the feeling of a hip-hop record (including production contribution from Kenny Beats), the album doubles down on the vitriolic sneer and blunt social commentary of their past work. Not far beneath the surface of their self-admitted sloganeering lies a deeply complex and brutally relevant album that chews up clichés and spits them out as high art for the masses. This is momentary acceptance of the self. This is Ultra Mono.

THIS MONTH’S COVERMOUNT CD is compiled by the eclectic hive mind of Idles. 15 tracks, featuring Nick Cave, Moses Sumney, Au Pairs, The Waterboys, The Flamingos and, naturally, Idles. A must for every Idles fan and everybody else.

If there is a manifesto to be found on the debut album from Bristolian post-punk quintet Idles, it makes itself apparent early in its first track: “I’m just saying I don’t like you.” No one is safe from bludgeoning savagery on the perfectly titled ‘Brutalism’, whether you’re a TV chef or a Conservative MP.