On their 7th album, Free Reign, Liverpool-based band Clinic return to the basics, with the four-piece utilising their trademark minimalistic, post-punk sounds to create a cohesive whole.
Album-opener ‘Misty’ is a slow and brooding introduction, employing almost Thom Yorke-like vocals backed by repetitive drum and bass that slowly builds throughout the song.
‘See Saw’ is a more upbeat affair, with a clarinet perfectly complementing the band’s sound, contrasting with the fuzzy, psychedelic guitar noises that produce a layered and wonderfully weird track.
With monotonous, and at times electronic drums being constant throughout nearly the entire record, Clinic are at their best when extra elements are subtly added to the mix, such as the clarinet that is dispersed throughout, and even the always-fun melodica which makes a few appearances.
It is these elements that allow the band to remain unpredictable, adding intriguing dynamics to the otherwise not-too-interesting backing music.
‘Cosmic Radiation’ combines the fuzzy guitars with jazzy drums and basslines, with some added clarinet goodness to create a truly unique spacey rock song.
Frontman Ade Blackburn’s dark and atmospheric vocals stand-out across the album, adding a dramatic and somewhat infectious texture.
Although having existed for over 15 years, Clinic still remain shrouded in obscurity, possessing a small, but loyal, cult following, and this album probably won’t do much to change that. A rather short affair, with the collection of nine songs clocking in at just under 40 minutes, the band produce an interesting brand of post-punk music but is unlikely to break into the mainstream.
Album closer ‘Sun And The Moon’ is a satisfying conclusion, featuring the repeated refrain of ‘We’ll meet again’, no doubt signalling that Clinic will be around for a long time to come.
