Ian Blurton’s Future Now unleashes Crimes of the City, a 33-minute storm of guitar-driven rock that commands attention from start to finish. From the first riff to the final drum hit, the album throws you into a high-octane world where unfiltered energy reigns supreme. Ian and his band, featuring Glenn Milchem, Anna Ruddick, and Aaron Goldstein, have crafted an album that feels less like a studio record and more like a raw, unrestrained live experience.
Where previous albums may have leaned into complexity, Crimes of the City dials it back to deliver pure rock power. Influences like Danzig and Blue Öyster Cult come to life through thundering Marshall amps and searing guitar solos. The recording process prioritised the human element over perfection, capturing the band’s natural chemistry and emphasising the grit of real performance.
Ian’s goal was simple yet impactful,
“We just wanted a record that felt really human.”
Tracks like “House of Lords” and “Seventh Sin of Devotion” highlight the band’s mastery of balancing ferocity with melody. Gregory Macdonald’s harmonies add a glam-rock shimmer reminiscent of the 70s and 80s and bring an unexpected yet welcome depth. Meanwhile, the cover art and B-movie inspired design perfectly reflect the album’s cinematic vibe.
Future Now’s live ethos translates seamlessly onto record, promising one a taste of the band’s electrifying stage presence. Crimes of the City is an unvarnished testament to rock’s raw power.
