Johnny Marr fights ‘dodgy views’ on Fontaines D.C
Guitar legend Johnny Marr is diving into a fresh sound with his new solo album, ‘The Age Of Everything’, set to be released this Friday. This record isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a deep dive into perception, personal feeling, and the complex realities of the world around us.
The inspiration for the work came from a desire to examine how he perceives not just the world, but his own emotions and the feelings of those around him. Marr channeled this observation into writing songs that explore the human side of societal issues in the current era, pushing his signature guitar style into new, vibrant territory.
While writing, the process took place amidst the backdrop of London, with the music eventually being recorded in his native Manchester. The resulting LP features ten bright and punchy pop-leaning tracks that manage to balance introspection with infectious energy, demonstrating a fearless exploration of his own artistic idiosyncrasies.
Marr spoke about the creative impulse, noting that there was a sense of: ‘If you’ve got your own sound, do it and do it loud’. He approached the new project with a clear sense of purpose, often preferring to play the songs live on the road to find the necessary energy before recording. This methodical approach allowed him to navigate the reinvention of his sound without being overly impulsive.
His musical palate is clearly broad and rich, drawing heavily from diverse influences. Marr has immersed himself in sounds ranging from the ambient tones of Boards Of Canada and the raw energy of Fontaines D.C., to the gothic atmosphere of The Cure and the angular influence of Depeche Mode. His past collaborations, including work with Damon Albarn on the cartoon pioneers’ record ‘The Mountain’, further informed his open-minded approach to creating new material.
The album title, ‘The Age Of Everything’, acknowledges the feeling of being overwhelmed by modern stimulation. However, Marr views this not as a state of gloom, but as a prompt for a different kind of cultural reflection, suggesting a link to new age-ist and Buddhist perspectives on the current moment.
Through the lyrics, Marr tackles universal concerns without resorting to heavy political rhetoric. On tracks like ‘It’s Time’, he explores themes of feeling a shift, urging listeners to ‘Open your eyes to know the truth’ and ‘mobilise to know the truth’, touching upon the effects of unregulated capitalism and the consequences of technology and social media.
This exploration is deeply cathartic. Marr admitted that the recording process allowed him to exorcise certain feelings, realizing that some songs inherently carry viewpoints. He described the experience as a clearing of the decks, leading to a realization that music is a powerful vehicle for processing complex, often uncomfortable, truths.
Perhaps the most optimistic note in the album lies in Marr’s regard for the younger generation. He expressed genuine admiration for today’s youth, noting that they are incredibly switched on—musically, politically, and stylistically. He sees in them a recognition and faith that older generations have long held, inspiring him to look forward with genuine optimism for the future.
As Andy Burnham has recently demonstrated a cultural awareness, Marr reflected that this, coupled with the general mood, suggests a shift toward confronting real issues rather than dwelling on the superficial. It is a reminder that while the world feels overwhelming, there is strength and a vibrant future waiting to be embraced.
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