Album Review: Mogwai - As The Love Continues

It was an often-repeated claim that John Peel's favourite band The Fall were "always different, always the same". Much the same could be said for Mogwai, who, like The Fall, were brought to the public's attention through that legendary UK radio DJ's support. 

As The Love Continues comes nearly 25 years after Mogwai’s first single, but there’s no signs of creative stagnation. While their notorious quiet-loud approach remains a cornerstone, there’s further exploration into synthesisers. Dave Fridmann's production is as girthy as ever, showing no apparent trouble executing his duties from across the Atlantic due to COVID-19 restrictions on movement, as the plan to record in America was shelved and the band recorded in their native UK instead.

Historically not ones to dial up potential collaborators, Pat Stains is brought to life with the otherworldly saxophones trills only Colin Stetson can provide. Midnight Flit is a rare orchestral endeavour with the help of Atticus Ross (Nine Inch Nails), who adds a glorious cinematic touch. For all its fireworks though, it's not as effective or heroically panoramic as the closing It's What I Want To Do, Mum - which is yet another example of Mogwai labelling a gorgeously transcendent track with a silly title.

Ever the same, constantly changing - as a great man almost said.