I’ve been contemplating this review of Black Tape by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club since the EP’s release at the end of January. Initially, I wasn’t inclined to write one. Not because I don’t like the EP. I love it from beginning to end, but sometimes, I just want to listen to music without having to form a formal opinion, but with each listen of Black Tape, I am in utter awe of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club.
I have been a fan of BMRC since a guy I was interested in gave me a copy of their debut album B.M.R.C. Nothing much happened with the fella but I did have a new band to love and I will always be grateful for that. Throughout each album or EP, the one thing I’ve consistently admired about the band is their commitment to their sound. Whether it’s foot-stomping, come-to-Jesus moments or reflective and haunting interludes, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club always, and I mean always, knows how to captivate and mesmerise.
The four songs on the EP were recorded during the Wrong Creatures sessions and were originally released as part of a box set, but the band so kindly released them digitally and they capture the essence of who the band is to perfection.
Once “Bad Rabbit” started, my mouth fell to the floor. The guitar draws you in, the bass seduces, and the drums plunge you straight into the depths of the emotional pool. The song is sexy, groovy, and gritty.
Then comes “Bandung Hum”. The sexy groove persists, but the song takes you on a vicious and delightful journey into the heart of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club‘s sound. For newcomers to the world of BRMC, this song captures the true essence of who the band has been since day one…a band that knows how to craft beats, music, and lyrics that utterly captivate and enthrall.
Lord have mercy on my soul, what is there not to love about “Running in the Red (Messy)”? Groovy, fast, and fun, the song shows the upbeat side of the band. For me, it is reminiscent of “Berlin” and “Weapon of Choice” and that fun rock that is both dance floor and bouncing in the pit worthy.
Lastly there is “DFF (For Those Who Can’t)”. The haunting track shows off BMRC’s ‘spiritual side’. I say this with parenthesis as this song has always moved me as much as “Aya” and “666 Conducer” does. I like when BMRC dives into and gets lost in the beats and vibes. They may not consciously aim to explore the spiritual side of the listener, but they’ve always excelled at connecting them to something higher. “DFF” first appeared on their album Wrong Creatures, but the version on Black Tape reduces the frequencies heard in the original, amplifies the attitudes, and extends the song to over six soul-stirring minutes.
Black Tape is a sonic masterpiece by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. Each track is a mesmerising journey through raw emotion and unbridled energy and guaranteed to leave one spellbound from start to finish.
