Making double albums can be a bit of a risk for a band, especially when the word “concept” gets thrown around.  Fortunately for UK rock band Boston Manor, this decision pays off with the release of Sundiver, out September 6th on SharpTone records. The companion piece to the band’s somewhat darker 2022’s Datura, Sundiver is brighter, more energetic than its predecessor.

The opening track Datura(Dawn) begins with the sounds of birds chirping and the lyrics “Can you please open that window/ let the new world in/ There’s a flower in the garden/ I feel it blossoming). This sets the tone for the rest of the album, which represents growth and new beginnings. 

Things get heavier and rather eclectic throughout the record, especially with the foot stomping, hard driving sound of Container, which feels more nu-metal than the more traditional pop-punk we’re used to with Boston Manor. HEAT ME UP has lead singer Henry Cox doing his best Dexter Holland impression, as it’s very reminiscent of The Offspring, and it rocks. 

Arguably the most unique song on the album is Horses In A Dream, which I find myself keep going back to over and over again. A super catchy dance track, it might alienate some longtime fans, but it’s pure pop bliss. Dissolve is a modern take on new-wave, but throws in heavy distortion to keep things interesting. Another standout is What Is Taken, Will Never Be Lost, a more hypnotic slow burn whose killer acoustic riff is so simple, yet so damn good.

There are a few moments on the record that aren’t quite as memorable as others, but they don’t do much to detract from the album overall. The production and mixing is stellar, every instrument and vocal sounds clean and precise. There’s a lot to love on Sundiver. It’s a great companion piece to the aforementioned Datura, it also stands out on its own.

 Boston Manor is one of those bands that aren’t afraid to take swings creatively. When they do, they rarely miss. While Sundiver may not be a grand slam, it’s definitely a solid triple. 

Rating 8.7/10

Release Date: September 6th, 2024

Tracklisting:

1: Datura (Dawn)

2: Container

3: Sliding Doors

4: HEAT ME UP

5: Horses In A Dream 

6: Morning Star

7: Why I Sleep

8: Fornix 

9: Dissolve

10: What Is Taken, Will Never Be Lost 

11: DC Mini (feat Heriot) 

Written by Jeremy Schmidt