Published on Aug 10, 2020
Seeing as how it's been 23 years since a Psychedelic Furs review made its way here, and the '80s legends have just released their first album in 29 years, it seems very fitting that Made Of Rain marks their second appearance at The Vault.
On this eighth album, the lineup consists of Richard Butler (vocals), Tim Butler (bass), Mars Williams (saxophone), Paul Garisto (drums), Amanda Kramer (keys), and Rich Good (guitar), which has been their touring line up in recent years.
After the ambient opening of “The Boy That Invented Rock & Roll” where the ominous spirit of the strong opener even brings in some horns, the creativity continues to the busy and hypnotic post-punk of “Don't Believe” as well as the anthemic alt-rock of “You'll Be Mine,” which embraces folk moments, too.
There's a dozen tracks present and each one is classic Furs, including the warm keys and powerful haze of the Bowie-friendly “This'll Never Be Like Love.” Meanwhile, “Ash Wednesday” touches on all the dynamics that we loved so much about their '80s singles – heartfelt and with no shortage of gloomy, New Wave-inspired melody. “Tiny Hands,” an incredibly exceptional track, then brings a darkly romantic quality to a very pretty landscape as the legends expand their horizons.
Late in the listen, “Turn Your Back On Me” moves with a soothing, agile approach where shades of goth and electronics add much to climate, and “Stars” exits the affair with a spacey execution of synth amid a blurry atmosphere.
An extremely textured, rich, adventurous and mature effort, I know that every Furs record is their best, but this one really is their best. Whether you're only familiar with their '80s hits or are a die hard fan, you're going to adore every minute of this outstanding album.