When it comes to reviewing an album by a band that’s completely new to the listener one has to ask if ignorance can be viewed as a bonus or a hindrance? In the case of Man Man’s fifth record, On Oni Pond, it turns out to be a little of both.
Head honcho Honus Honus, had seemingly umpteen different ideas floating through his thought process during the recording, as each song has a hell of a lot going on. This has resulted in the listener being dragged into Man Man’s interpretation of what hook laden, melodic indie pop, should sound like.
With Saddle Creek producer Mike Mogis behind the desk, the record has a pretty polished and orchestral sound to it. At times they’re reminiscent of a more radio friendly Wolf Parade or Modest Mouse.
On Oni Pond incorporates a wide variety of different instrumentation throughout, with horns, stings, mandolin, piano and various electronic beats, added into the mix.
Their main goal being to accompany Honus Honus’ personal, dark and sexualised lyrics; “Head On” includes the lines – ‘it’s why you’re always misread/it’s why you sleep/but you never feel rested’ while “Loot My Body” mentions –‘feel free to loot my body/just take whatever you want’.
There are a couple of upbeat flavoured tunes on On Oni Pond, as well as the dub influenced “King Shiv”. But can the album be viewed in a positive light, if the rest of it just passes by? I’m not sure it is, to be honest.
