"Warmer Than Gold": A Rich Soundscape, But Lacking Its Usual Lyrical Punch
The Evolution of Ben Cook's Musical Identity
For nearly two decades, Ben Cook has been crafting infectious pop melodies, frequently adopting new monikers such as Young Governor, Young Guv and the Scuzz, and Young Guv. His latest project, GUV, marks a continued evolution in his diverse musical journey. This venture follows his significant contributions as a guitarist for the punk ensemble Fucked Up and his role as the frontman for the Toronto hardcore band No Warning. Unlike many artists who confine themselves to a narrow stylistic niche, Cook is a musical chameleon, seamlessly integrating elements from various genres, always with a strong focus on catchy hooks. He has skillfully emulated sounds ranging from Prince's "Dirty Mind" era to vibrant synth-pop and even the country-infused phase of The Byrds, utilizing bright 12-string guitars, lush vocal harmonies, and instantly memorable tunes.
Inspiration and Sound of "Warmer Than Gold"
Cook's recent trip to London in 2024, where he explored pubs and streets near his childhood home in Brixton, significantly influenced his new album, "Warmer Than Gold." This album marks a deeper dive into the "baggy Manchester opioid chic" aesthetic he previously touched upon in "GUV IV" (2022). The new release is a substantial offering of Britpop, characterized by its dense sound. However, it notably features fewer of the immediate, catchy melodies that fans have come to expect from Cook. Without these prominent hooks, the album's exploration of urban experiences, romantic relationships, and feelings of displacement can occasionally feel repetitive and less engaging. The recurring themes of seeking love, finding it, struggling to let go, and extensive travel appear throughout the album.
Production and Sonic Exploration
Collaborating with his No Warning bandmate James Matthew Seven, Cook has constructed an opulent soundscape for "Warmer Than Gold," drawing heavily from early shoegaze and Madchester music. Tracks like "Never Should Have Said" evoke an early dream-pop vibe with its flanged acoustic guitars and guest harmonies from Hatchie. "Thorns in My Heart" conspicuously borrows from The Cure's signature style, while "Crash Down Feeling" is GUV's closest approach to the dance-oriented rhythms of Primal Scream. The album also incorporates percussive drum machines, adding a dynamic boost to otherwise languid tracks such as "Blue Jade."
Style Over Substance: The GUV Ethos
GUV consistently prioritizes stylistic flair over thematic depth, a trait evident in Cook's confident persona, as humorously highlighted by an Oasis poster in his otherwise minimalist living space. His vocal delivery, often deadpan and disdainful, perfectly complements the imposing and anthemic "Let Your Hands Go." The liberal use of Auto-Tune on "Hello Miss Blue" further emphasizes Cook's disoriented and wandering demeanor. Yet, as his songwriting ventures into more sincere territory, his ability to deliver these lines convincingly diminishes. On "Seaside Story," characterized by its hazy, clean electric guitars, Cook's performance even conveys a sense of self-boredom.
Lyrical Nuances and Challenges
From his earliest Young Governor releases, Cook's lyrics have often lacked precise detail, though this has seldom been an issue when combined with his talent for creating memorable melodies. His primary lyrical focus has consistently been romantic escapades. Even his most clichéd romantic expressions were previously elevated by unexpected musical shifts, engaging call-and-response harmonies, or clever pop devices. On "Warmer Than Gold," however, Cook employs colors as a simplistic emotional shorthand, referencing "neon glow" and "hundred shades of blues" in "Out of This Place." Unfortunately, the melodies on this album aren't robust enough to compensate for his somewhat uninspired lyrical choices. When he sings, "I must be crazy to be chasin’ love again," listeners might find themselves in agreement.
Finding Its Rhythm: Dance Floor Influences
"Warmer Than Gold" truly finds its rhythm when Cook embraces and showcases his influences from 1990s dance music. "Oscillating," with its sharp synths and drum'n'bass beat, achieves a perfectly enjoyable absurdity. Similarly, "Hello Miss Blue" gains momentum as Cook narrates the story of his dream girl losing her distinct London charm. GUV excels at creating evocative mood music, ideal for urban strolls, fostering feelings of confidence and delightful delusion. In "Let Your Hands Go," his directive to "Want it/Get on it/See it comin'" acts as a powerful affirmation, granting him the artistic license to embody the cool swagger associated with figures like Liam Gallagher.