McCartney’s ‘It’ll Be OK’: In-Depth Reviews and Insights from Clash Magazine

The debut album ‘McCartney, It’ll Be OK’ from the band UNIVERSITY kicks off in a quirky way. It starts with a ringing phone and a jumbled message that leaves you curious. This opening sets the tone for an album that’s full of surprises and a fresh sound that you won’t find anywhere else.

Based in Crewe, the band features four members: Zak Bowker (vocals and guitar), Ewan Barton (bass), Joel Smith (drums), and Eddie, their mascot. They seem to care less about traditional reviews and more about letting listeners experience their music however they like. It’s a breath of fresh air in today’s music scene.

The first track, ‘Massive Twenty One Pilots Tattoo,’ illustrates this playful vibe. It starts with those phone sounds and transitions into an energetic melody that grabs your attention. The last 30 seconds are sharp and engaging, showcasing their knack for fun, precise rhythms. The next song, ‘Curwen,’ carries over that energy with a punk rock edge. The instrumentation is frenetic, and while the drumming starts wild, it pulls back for an emotional vocal moment before ramping back up again.

‘Gorilla Panic’ stands out as a highlight. It begins in chaos, then quiets, allowing Bowker to deliver lyrics that are intentionally hard to decipher. The song builds gradually, creating a hypnotic experience. The opening of ‘Hustler’s Metamorphosis’ promises a funky vibe, but it quickly escalates, racing ahead with powerful guitar and emotional vocals. It’s fascinating how UNIVERSITY creates such a dense soundscape, especially in that heart-pounding finale.

They recorded ‘McCartney, It’ll Be OK’ live with producer Kwes Darko, known for his work with artists like Sampa The Great and Denzel Curry. The rawness in their tracks, especially in ‘GTA Online,’ reflects their unfiltered creativity. It’s a gentler tune compared to others, building up steadily until it bursts with energy.

‘Diamond Song’ is a whirlwind of noise where every instrument feels like it’s competing for the spotlight. The wild guitar riffs and chaotic vocals add to the energy, ending with a rough, scratchy finish that loops back to the intro sounds.

‘History Of Iron Maiden Pt. 1’ spans a staggering 10 minutes, showcasing a journey of emotions. The vocal delivery shifts from anguish to melody, creating a cinematic feel. The last track, hilariously titled ‘History of Iron Maiden Pt. 0.5,’ wraps things up with a playful instrumental filled with electronic beats, contrasting with the epic length of its predecessor.

In a world of polished music, UNIVERSITY reminds us of the beauty in raw sound. They offer a genuine reflection of who they are through their debut album, blending noise, chaos, and even moments of calm. This artistic approach leaves listeners with a sense of thrill and connection. It’s a unique experience that takes you to a whole different realm.

Rating: 8/10

Words: Julia Mason

For more insights into the world of music, check out studies from sources like the [Music Industry Research Association](https://musicindustryresearch.org/) to see how bands like UNIVERSITY are changing the landscape.

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