Man/Woman/Chainsaw's debut album, 'Cannonball', is a wild ride through the realms of experimental pop, showcasing a unique blend of genres and a distinct artistic vision. The band's ability to seamlessly transition from soft, soulful ballads to gritty, grunge-infused rock anthems is truly remarkable. With a diverse range of influences, from shoegaze to post-rock and even folk, they create a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly new. The album's title track, 'Cannonball', sets the tone with its explosive opening, featuring a catchy melody and a vibrant energy that immediately grabs the listener's attention. This is a band that knows how to make an impact from the very first note.
One of the standout tracks is 'Canyons', which begins with a delicate, Adele-esque vocal performance before unexpectedly transforming into a grunge-inspired masterpiece. This dynamic showcases the band's versatility and their willingness to challenge conventions. The song's ability to evoke both vulnerability and intensity is a testament to their songwriting prowess. 'Still Angry' further demonstrates their unique approach, blending pop sensibilities with a rock edge, resulting in a chart-topping potential hit. The soulful and loungey 'Lighter' is a highlight, with its jazz-infused rhythm and haunting post-rock elements, creating a captivating atmosphere.
Man/Woman/Chainsaw's live performances are equally impressive, with a dynamic stage presence that matches their musical prowess. The band members, including guitarist Billy Ward, keys player Emmie-Mae Avery, bassist Vera Leppänen, violinist Clio Starwood, and the earth-shattering guitar of Billy Doyle, create a cohesive and powerful unit. Their ability to share lead vocals adds depth and texture to their sound, making each song a collaborative effort.
The album's second half showcases the band's diverse musical influences even further. 'Nosedive' is a strutting, cinematic track that pays homage to the glory days of LCD Soundsystem and the dancefloor anthems of Los Campesinos. It's a modern take on the classic festival sing-along, with a catchy hook that will have audiences grooving. 'Godddamn, Lizard Man!' is a gothic, Nick Cave-inspired masterpiece, warning of dark and mysterious characters with a modern twist. The hell-bound tango of 'Flick Of The Wrist' and the slow-burning 'Get Up And Dance' showcase the band's ability to create atmospheric and emotionally charged moments.
'Cannonball' is an album that defies easy categorization, blending various genres with a playful yet emotionally direct approach. It's an ambitious debut that never veers into over-indulgence, instead delivering a cohesive and captivating listening experience. The band's raw ambition and unique sound have already garnered attention, and with their impressive live performances and diverse musical influences, Man/Woman/Chainsaw is a band to watch. 'Cannonball' is a surefire nominee for the Mercury Prize, and with its release date set for August 7, 2026, on Fiction Records, it's an album that will undoubtedly make a splash in the music industry.
In my opinion, what makes this album particularly fascinating is the band's ability to create a cohesive and captivating narrative while pushing the boundaries of genre. The attention to detail in each song's structure and the seamless transitions between styles showcase a level of craftsmanship that is rare in today's music landscape. From the raw energy of the opening tracks to the haunting beauty of the album's closer, 'Something Else To Give', Man/Woman/Chainsaw has crafted an album that will resonate with listeners long after the first listen. This is a band that has truly arrived, and 'Cannonball' is a testament to their talent and artistic vision.
