Review: Babal ‘Running In The Gutter’
Entering into the musical universe of Babal is a truly unique experience. Imagine stepping onto a spaceship crafted from sound, where the familiar rules of music seem to bend and twist in the most exciting ways.
This isn’t your typical, radio-friendly band; Babal is an experimental prog rock group based in Malvern, Worcestershire, England, that fearlessly explores unusual sonar territories.
Their sound is unrestrained, meaning it doesn’t hold back and is astonishing because it’s full of surprises. It’s like discovering a secret and theatrical world, brimming with drama and emotion. The feeling of falling in love with their distinctive sound is akin to embarking on a grand adventure, one you’re not quite sure where you’ll end up, but you know the journey will be captivating.
What makes Babal even more compelling is its lyrical content. They don’t shy away from tackling complex issues ripped straight from today’s headlines. Thinking of current events, politics, and the struggles of public life, all transformed into powerful and thought-provoking lyrics. Their songs, more than just melodies, are social commentary, offering a unique perspective on the world around us. This clever blend of experimental and relevant propositions makes Babal stand out from the crowd. It’s like they’re holding up a mirror to society, reflecting back the good, the bad, and the complicated, all set to a soundtrack that defies categorisation.
I have had the pleasure of knowing the band for several years now, all thanks to my good friend Gianpiero Fleba, who is the editor of the no longer updated psych rock webzine PleniRockium. As the sole contributor to the site, I’ve had a front-row seat to some incredible musical journeys. The first time I heard this band’s music, it was like stepping into a vibrant world filled with strong and deep emotions. Their unique blend of guitar and synth riffs, brought to life by the talented Rob Williams, immediately drew me in.
Along with the steady drumming of Jon Sharp, the music creates a unique soundscape that is hard to forget, showcasing the magical essence of their artistry. Every song feels like a story waiting to unfold, and it’s all beautifully delivered by Rob’s wife, Karen Langley. Her interpretations add an extra layer of emotion that feels both personal and universal.
Rob and Karen‘s musical history is a fascinating one, starting way back in the ‘90s. Imagine them as Wise Children first, exploring sounds and ideas. Then they morphed into Babble, experimenting further, before finally blossoming into the band we know and love as Babal. It’s like watching a plant grow from a tiny seed, isn’t it? Under this cool name, they’ve created tons of music, including singles, EPs, and full albums, most of which came out on Nick Katona’s Miami prog rock label Melodic Revolution Records.
This blend of art and activism makes Running In The Gutter a remarkable contribution to modern progressive rock and the meaning of life…
It’s amazing how artists evolve and find their true voice over time, and Babal‘s journey shows exactly that! If you’re looking to dive into Babal‘s world, two albums, in my opinion, that are a great place to start are Who Will I Be When I Leave? and Let’s Get Lucid, their last for Melodic Revolution Records. These two albums are particularly noteworthy for their perfect balance of music and lyrics.
With their new album, Running In The Gutter, the band dives deep into the essence of progressive rock, flowing like a gentle river. The album, their first released under Fruits De Mere Records imprint Friends Of The Fish, reveals an eclectic mix of styles that keeps each track fresh and engaging. The combination of rich melodies and intricate harmonies creates a soundscape that’s both beautiful and transcendent. The lyrics, penned by Karen Langley, are once again at the heart of the record, her poetic prowess shining brightly.
From the start, the album unfolds its wonderful sonority with a growing complexity, like a ball of yarn slowly unravelling to reveal an intricate design. Each instrument finds its place in perfect, unified and multifaceted harmony. The Best Restaurants serves as a prime example, delivering a wave of sound that’s both grand and surprising. You can almost visualise Chris Gill‘s focused work on the bass, providing a solid foundation, while Williams and Sharp weave their magic, creating a captivating rhythmic interplay. Karen‘s lyrical observations add another layer to the experience, painting vivid pictures with memorable lines that stick with you long after the song ends.
In The World That We Know, the sheer scale of the sound is intriguing, washing over you and leaving no doubt about the world the music is trying to portray. It’s a far cry from any idealised fantasy, instead confronting listeners with stark realities and harsh truths. The lyrics are raw and unflinching, addressing societal issues and personal struggles with a directness that’s both unsettling and thought-provoking. This track serves as a potent reminder of the power of music to not only entertain but also to challenge and provoke reflection.
The title Running In The Gutter is a powerful metaphor, shedding light on the pressing issue of social disparity. Karen explains that the album reflects on the constant struggle between the wealthy and those who face the daily challenges of life. With each song, the band not only entertains but also provokes thought about societal concerns and the failures of governance, highlighting the importance of awareness in an often-chaotic world. This blend of art and activism makes Running In The Gutter a remarkable contribution to modern progressive rock and the meaning of life.
Label: Friends Of The Fish
Band Links: Official | Facebook | Bandcamp | Spotify | Instagram
Scribed by: Domenico ‘Mimmo’ Caccamo
