I recently came across Marsha and the Positrons when I reviewed their single "New Leaf ", a song which also features on the new album Energetic. The album contains fifteen original songs brimming with high quality melodies and compelling lyrics throughout. Essentially, the album is something of a mixed bag, where a number of diverse styles all merge magnificently into one complete whole. Nothing is left to chance here, everything is pushed to the max. From the cerebral lyrics, to the dexterity of the musicianship, the music transcends traditional musical norms, and does so in fine style.
The album begins with the upbeat "Buzz Buzz" a song of foot stomping clarity and breathtaking energy. Here, a hypnotic beat provides the required space for the bass to let rip, with additional melody emanating from a Hammond organ and electric guitar. The song reminded me slightly of Katrina and the Waves in terms of its uplifting intensity, where we are all encouraged to do the Waggle Dance.
"Counting on My Brain" has more of a country vibe, which takes full advantage of a honky-tonk piano that really sparkles throughout. The arrangement also includes a subtle brass section which merges seamlessly with the rest of the music. The vocal melody is superb, as are the lyrics which endeavour to dissect the brain in order to reveal what's going on in 'that little brain in your head'. The lyrics further examine the role of the five senses throughout the song, as we are ultimately 'counting on the brain'.
"Starlings" is more funky and describes the spectacular shapes starlings make in the sky. The music sounds like a seventies film soundtrack, such is the ambitious arrangement and lavish musicality on display. I also love the exotic vocal which serenades throughout, with it's elongated notes and soaring melodies, allowing the music to fly much like the birds described. The song further benefits from the unique input of Saul Paul, who adds a slice of rap to the proceedings.
"Whether the Weather" features what sounds like a double bass, alongside a beautiful Spanish guitar and an intriguing keyboard which seems to twinkle like the rain. Here, whatever the weather brings, we are prepared, let it be, it's all good. Well, I'm all for that, there's no point fighting life, and expecting the universe to work for you, sometimes you just have to go with the flow. The music has an easy-listening vibe, with a slight jazzy feel, that would probably sit nicely on a Sade album. Wonderful!
My absolute favourite track on the album is "Ghost Forest Investigators" with its pulsating bass, penetrating drums and charming melody. The song is uplifting, intriguing and really stirs the senses with its relentless power and superb harmonies. The song also features a guitar break that surprisingly, wouldn't sound that out of place on a Thin Lizzy album, which is alright by me.
"Meet Me In My Dreams" begins in quite dramatic fashion, and then gradually metastasises into something slightly more melancholy. The lyrics suggest that as long as 'we keep the fun in mind we'll be okay'. The bridge is also quite dramatic, gradually building in intensity before ultimately returning to form. A charming sentiment, performed to perfection with both skill and dexterity.
"Kinetic and Potential Energy" ventures into stadium rock territory, with its steady rock groove and uplifting chorus. The lyrics expand on the title, and despite the intricacy of the vocal scan, the song remains something of a cerebral dance of commercial expertise.
"Road to Bremen" has more of a folk feel, featuring a cumulative arrangement where the instruments gradually join the party, each taking the opportunity to perform a mini solo in the process. Despite the musical interludes, the song provides an open invitation for all the listeners out there to 'sing out loud'. Marching music for the masses. Superb!
"Shoelaces" has an exuberant opening before temporarily slowing down and then erupting once again, with fifties style doo-wop harmonies, and a relentless piano. I'm sure even Fonzie would be impressed. The song ultimately provides an interesting dichotomy between different decades, with the verse emanating a seventies vibe, and the chorus steeped in the fifties. A truly extraordinary blend of styles, between two distinct eras, and unlike anything I've ever heard.
"No More Doctor Blues" recounts a visit to the doctors where all the bonuses are described including toys to play with, books to flick through or even a 'lollypop to lick'. The song has more of a bluesy feel, with a 12-bar arrangement very much in play. The lyrics attempt to provide solace for a nervous child who is persuaded that there is no need to be 'afraid or anxious'.
"Fly Ladybug Fly" has more of a swing feel, and is a song essentially about freedom, where we are all encouraged to 'get out there and fly'. Once again, the music is lively, upbeat and easy to dance to. The vocals are an absolute delight, further enhanced by a wonderful chorus which is swimming in melody. A highly effective brass section is also included, as the lyrics take us on an intriguing journey; because 'it's no doubt better outside'.
"Sound of the Cicadas" is quite laid-back; and here the listener is given the opportunity to chill out as the band explore the magical return of the cicadas from their hiatus. The lyrics describe how they 'shimmer and shine', and although 'they can't jump they can fly just fine'. The song pans out like a biology lesson for kids, where descriptive verse meets exuberant melody and soothing harmonies.
"We're Going To the Library" arrives like a breath of fresh air, and is very much a song for the moment. I've always loved libraries, as the song describes, where 'adventure awaits inside'. The music once again features a lively piano, an interesting drum pattern, and some quite beautiful harmonies. In an era where a selection of books are now being banned from public libraries, this is a song that should be sung from the highest rooftop.
"High Fives" provides a great finale to the album, and really goes out on a limb, with its almost mystical approach. The song also features the superbly executed rap input of Dumi Right and beatboxing of Black Root who add their own unique brand of musical expertise . The lyrics emanate positivity through their focus on empathy and connection, achieved through 'an unlimited supply of high fives'. Love it!
Overall, a very ambitious album from a superb band who really push the envelope, and succeed in taking the genre of family music to new heights. This is largely due to the lyrical approach, which explores complex subject matter in forensic detail, and yet still manages to provide commercial appeal. The album is packed with brilliant songs, that are intelligent, charming and wonderfully executed. The musicianship is superb throughout as is the production which is crystal clear despite the numerous instruments competing for space. An album that inspires and informs, yet still provides plenty of room to dance.
Marsha and the Positrons - get moving.
