Blue Bendy’s debut album, ‘So Medieval,’ is an engrossing journey through soundscapes where traditional song structure is abandoned in favour of a more innovative sonic approach. Containing 10 tracks and spanning 36 minutes, the album builds upon the groundwork laid by their 2022 EP, ‘Motorbike,’ showcasing an even more polished and expansive sound, defying anyone looking to easily categorize the group.
The South London six-piece band, consisting of Arthur Nolan (lead vocals), Joe Nash (guitar, synthesizer), Olivia Morgan (synthesizer, keyboards, vocals), Sam Wilson (bass), Harrison Charles (guitar), and Oscar Tebbutt (drums), formed in 2017 and has developed a musical identity rooted in an unpredictable-in-nature knack for instrumentation and Nolan’s evocative and charming vocal delivery. Their singular sound is found within music that is unrelentingly brimming with personality from start to finish, making ‘So Medieval’ a standout record in 2024.
The titular opening track, “So Medieval,” sets the tone for the LP, combining its dreamy instrumental backdrop with Nolan’s whimsical and ear-grabbing lyricism that quickly asserts itself on the record.
“No sex, no mess, no second chance
The ceremonial setting fire to my underpants
If every lust is just a devils dance
The floor is mine in a religious trance“
Furthermore, the dynamic that is formed between guitar and keys creates a fantastical and wondrous atmosphere in this track’s gentler moments, working excellently to accompany the restrained bursts found throughout the opener.
The ensuing “Mr. Bubblegum” feels like Blue Bendy honing their own unique sound in sensational fashion that sees hypnotic synthesizers and twangy strings never giving hint to what the song may develop into. It can’t be understated how wonderfully mesmerizing the instrumentation is on this track, and the raw and emphatic vocals to pair complement this flawlessly.
“Darp 2 / Exorcism” emerges as a standout track, blending yearning and pleading lead vocals, an elegant guitar riff, and lush background vocals. The song builds to a breathtaking crescendo, embodying a hopeful-cathartic journey that exists as one of the album’s many highlights. One of the best songs of the year.
“It’s the car, it’s the planet, it’s everything
Darp 2 / Exorcism, So Medieval (2024)
Come along if you’re sad to be seen
In ferryhill, there’s nothing I can believe
Don’t make me beg
In the car, it’s perfect apathy
You tell me am I missing something
When I wake up I know this isn’t the place
Don’t make me beg”
“The Day I Said You’d Died (He Lives)” injects an infectious eccentricity into the album, combining very lively instrumentation with Nolan’s charismatic delivery. The track exudes an undeniable energy, firing on all cylinders while maintaining a cohesive musicality that showcases the band’s chemistry.
At 6 minutes and 21 seconds, “Cloudy” comes in with the longest runtime on the album, and doesn’t waste a second reflecting the band’s versatlity that is woven into the LP. Pace changes, sprinkles of group vocals, and an uncompromisingly high energy all bind together to create a rich and grandiose experience that not only represent the band’s expansive abilities, but allows the penultimate song to set up the closer wonderfully.
“Goodnight Bobby” is a warranted and fitting ending to the album, blending various textures into a climactic finish that leaves a lingering impact. The track’s slow build carries a heavily intense atmosphere that culminates in an assertive punch of a resounding finish, providing a gratifying conclusion to the sonic journey the band leads.
‘So Medieval’ highlights Blue Bendy’s ability and commitment to pushing stylistic boundaries while ensuring the music is fully their own. Each track develops in a way that defies any expectations a listener may have, with intricate instrumental arrangements and Arthur Nolan’s whimsical, though poignant, lyricism. The album’s cohesive, yet adventurous spirit showcases a band unafraid to innovate, making Blue Bendy’s debut a must-listen for music fans in search of something refreshingly original.
Listen to So Medieval:
Apple Music | Spotify | Bandcamp
Follow Blue Bendy:
Check out “Blue Bendy Live at The state51 Factory” session for a live performance of songs from the album, hosted by The state51 Conspiracy.
Kyle’s Best of 2024 Playlist (Apple Music Only)
Soundwave Society Music Club 
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