Bovine: The Sun Never Sets on the British Empire

The title of this album—The Sun Never Sets on the British Empire—is a well known expression, one that suggests such a vast empire that surely, somewhere, the sun always shines on it. Interested readers should definitely do a Google search of the expression to find out more about what the expression means and how it's been used over the last hundred years or so. The expression also refers to the idea of expanding influence, empires, politics, and power throughout the world. The cover of this album takes an interesting position on this idea by showing a man, cell phone in one hand, a briefcase in the other, walking at a quick pace, his attention turned solely inward. To his left, a cloud, the remnants of a bomb blast, spreads upward and outward. Together, these images suggest one of the paradoxes of modern empire: when human beings feel busy, their eyes cast solely on their own problems, do they turn away from outside problems? Like the man in the picture, many people just keep on walking, no matter their surroundings. Do nations behave likewise, ignoring calamities in the interest of power?

As a musical offering, Bovine's debut is strong and notable, well worth listeners' time and attention. I've listened to it several times over the last couple of weeks and I find myself enjoying it more with each spin. The band describes themselves as "Sludge-soaked ghetto rockers" but to me they sound more like a post-metal band mixed with a healthy dose of Mastodon-like guitar work. In any event, they've put together a strong album that should successfully put these guys on the map. Be sure to check out the title track, "The Battle of the Sinkhole" and "Military Wife" for examples of what these guys can do in their best moments. Unlike their name, Bovine offers up some lean and tight materials just waiting to be enjoyed.

Track Listing:
1. Barium
2. Ghost Chair
3. Thank Fuck I Ain't You
4. Heroes are What
5. The Sun Never Sets on the British Empire
6. The Battle of the Sinkhole
7. Aneugenic
8. I Will Make You Real
9. Military Wife
10. Not Another Name

Added: May 4th 2013
Reviewer: Carl Sederholm
Score:
Related Link: Band Facebook Page
Hits: 2292
Language: english

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