BY EMMA SCHOORS
Nothing But Thieves reminds us that heaven’s a mindset away with their latest single, “Is Everybody Going Crazy?”
Hailing from Essex, England, the band has seen nearly every destination on the face of the planet. Playing packed shows in places like Russia, Thailand, the US, and Mexico, relentless touring has earned them a dedicated, close-knit group of fans, and plenty of life experiences from which to derive musical inspiration.
Almost nothing provides more vivid inspiration than current events, and the band is no stranger to delving into politics and religion. Debates surrounding both subjects have fueled global citizens to take action against bigotry and intolerance in recent years.
Lyrics from Nothing But Thieves’ catalogue are known to be soulful and intensely relevant, thanks to guitarist Joe Langridge-Brown, who often shares lyrics from the band’s songs on his social media.
This new tune is no different in that respect. It digs into the heart of the problems global citizens are facing, which seem to have no end. A pandemic is flurrying around the world, for a start.
The anxiety and utter hopelessness that people are experiencing is acknowledged with the line, “We’re so hopelessly faded.” However, this pessimism is met with optimism and gratitude with, “In this wounded, sinister place, we’ve only got each other.”
Lead singer Connor Mason is known for his Jeff Buckley-like vocals, but he has a style all his own that is worth a thousand words. His angelic voice is almost reminiscent of a guitar, which blends effortlessly with guitarist Dominic Craik’s well thought out parts. This combination of melody and grit is part of what makes the band members so compatible.
Philip Blake is the heart of the band, with gritty bass riffs that add an edge to the lightness of Mason’s vocals. Similarly, drummer James Price is a master of his craft, opting to create a drumming style all his own instead of fitting the mold. This adds another layer to the complex machine that is Nothing But Thieves.
Each and every member of Nothing But Thieves is irreplaceable, which ensures quality, deeply relatable songs that touch the hearts of nearly everyone who encounters them.
“Is Everybody Going Crazy?” isn’t the first song that the band has hit out of the park, and it won’t be the last.