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    • Aug 17, 2020

Album Review: Marsicans | Ursa Major

Marsicans have finally unveiled their debut album 'Ursa Major' in all its glory and it doesn’t disappoint. 

 

Marsicans, a four piece from Leeds have undoubtedly had a wild few years with their earlier singles ‘Too Good’ and ‘Friends’ gaining traction on Spotify and social media making them the band to watch but now with 5 years and 3 EP’s under their belt they’re back with their stunning, anthemic and highly anticipated debut album ‘Ursa Major’. 


The album starts with an introduction track, the concept of which fans of The 1975 will be familiar with. It really draws in your attention and gets you ready for the wild ride that is ‘Ursa Major’. 


The first full track on the album is the second single from the album titled ‘Juliet’. The immediate roaring of guitars and drum beats grab your undivided attention as we build up to a chorus of stunning vocals and an irresistibly catchy tune.  It’s a song made for festivals as it fills you with pure joy and excitement and the instinctive reaction to dance. ‘Sleep Start’ continues on with the heavy guitars and a fixating chorus that flows through a key change at either end that makes the song feel like a real journey. 

‘Dr Jekyll’ is the fourth track on the album and my personal favourite with soft, comforting vocals throughout the verses and first round of the chorus but then a sudden bout of that Marsicans style guitar kicks in and catches you off guard as we build into their signature upbeat melody and addictive guitar.


As we stride into ‘Summery in Angus’ the distinct vocals of James Newbigging command the song with that gorgeous unique Marsicans sound flowing throughout. We then hit Interlude I, which cleanses the palate and redirects the album reminding the listener that there is something new around every corner of ‘Ursa Major’. 

The isolated guitar at the very start of ‘Evie’ catches me unaware but fills me with excitement as the dance worthy chorus kicks in, speeding up your heart. ‘Evie’ is the perfect example of an incredibly well crafted pop song that demands to be heard. 


Just when you familiarise yourself with the Marsicans sound they lead you into the simply heartbreaking but equally sensational ‘Someone Else’s Touch’. The song was written about desperation and craving the person you love when you’ve lost them. It shows a more vulnerable side to the band but proves they aren’t afraid to play with different styles. However we are then brought back into motion with their ferocious and bold single ‘These days’ that charges through the body and commands you to dance just before we enter into another interlude titled ‘Interlude II  (William’s Poem)’. 

‘Can I Stay Here Forever (Part 2)’ is a welcome burst of energy after the previous interlude and immediately raises the heart rate and makes you feel electric with incredible fast guitar and infectious drums. Interlude III then brings the tone right back down and makes the album as a whole a real rollercoaster of emotions as the short interludes make the album feel like something of a soundtrack and really bring the songs together as a full body of work. 


The transition perfectly flows into ‘Blood In My Eye’. The vocals are rich and golden and the melody is slightly softer but at no point do the band lose their marvellously crafted distinct sound that us as fans treasure. 


‘Sunday’ has isolated Stone Roses style drums that shimmer at the start before breaking into a spectacularly catchy and anthemic chorus that leaves you in no doubt of how talented this Leeds outfit really are.  The penultimate song on ‘Ursa Major’ is titled ‘Leave Me outside’. It starts with raspy vocals that trick you into thinking this is a melancholy track like ‘Someone Else’s Touch’ but it does in fact pick up the pace and take you to a rock show in your mind. 

‘Should’ve Been There’ is the final track on the sublime ‘Ursa Major’. The acoustic guitar and breathtaking vocals start without warning as the album ends in what can only be described as a 2AM wind down when everyone has left the party and you and you’re friend are chilling on the sofa.  


‘Ursa Major’ is nothing short of seriously stunning, its smooth transitions, magnificent interludes, skillful musicianship and dreamy vocals make the album one of the best this year and put Marsicans firmly on the indie music map. 

 

Listen to 'Ursa Major' HERE Instagram: @marsicans

WRITTEN BY FAITH MARTIN

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