Body Manifest
Apollon, 2020
8/10
Though it’s been over a decade since the Nowergian/Polish outfit De Press have released a record, here the veteran rockers return with 13 very well done punk, folk and New Wave tunes that are so impressive, you’d think that band have playing together this entire time.
“You Never Get” starts the listen with a throbbing bass line in the post-punk fueled environment that reminds us of the greats like Wire and Mission Of Burma, and “Uwazuj Uwazuj” continues the propulsive atmosphere with a rhythmic approach to their jagged and driving formula that’s not short on melody, too.
Near the middle, “Condom Nation” brings a bouncy and lively energy to the affair, complete with guitar solos, while “Mijajom sie casy” trims the pace back with a cautious dip into folk-rock territory. The quirky, ‘80s inspired title track then moves with an unpredictable and playful approach that would make David Byrne smile.
Near the end, the album highlight, “Skurcysyny”, starts with an almost operatic presence before erupting into searing, tuneful alt-rock, and “Gift From Stalin” exits the listen with nearly 7 minutes of exploration that soars loud, bristles with sonic beauty and grit and creates plenty of atmosphere.
Let’s hope that De Press will become a more consistent band, cause Body Manifest is one exciting and well crafted tune after another.
Travels well with: Cosse- Nothing Belongs To Anything; Raise- Crepa!