From the moment Glad Days by Kingdom of Mustang bursts to life, it’s like stepping into a time machine set for the golden era of the late ’60s and ’70s. The band’s commitment to authentic songwriting is immediately apparent, but it’s the production quality and overall aesthetic that truly transports you.
For those who grew up with the lush, analogue warmth of this musical epoch, the album is a nostalgic balm, a refreshing departure from the often sterile soundscapes of contemporary production. Clocking in at a robust fourteen tracks, Glad Days defies modern trends of brevity. There’s no fat to trim here—each song stands sturdy and compelling, a testament to Kingdom of Mustang’s dedication to crafting great music.
They eschew unnecessary embellishments, focusing instead on the core elements that make a song resonate. Tracks like “Talk Talk Talk” channel the frenetic energy of garage rock, infused with punk’s raw edge and a dash of pop sensibility. Meanwhile, “Say Hey to Blue” showcases the band’s versatility, pivoting in a direction that feels both fresh and familiar.
And then there’s “If Your Mama Don’t You Lies,” a track that wouldn’t feel out of place on a Beatles b-side compilation, shimmering with melodic brilliance. The album is a treasure trove of gems, each song a polished piece of the band’s meticulous craftsmanship. Glad Days isn’t just a nod to the past; it’s a revival of the era’s ethos, where every note, every lyric, is honed to perfection. Kingdom of Mustang has created an album that demands to be played in full, a seamless experience through a vessel that feels both timeless and urgently present.
Discover ‘Glad Days’ on Spotify: