Atanaria
Boston Manor’s Sundiver is a bold and unapologetic testament to the band’s refusal to be pigeonholed. In an industry where standing out often means going against the grain, the five-piece from Blackpool manage to do just that, blending genres and defying expectations while still maintaining a cohesive and deeply original sound.
Coming off the heels of 2020’s GLUE and 2022’s introspective Datura, the band might seem to have little left to prove. However, Sundiver produced by Sharpstone Records shows that Boston Manor still have plenty to say. This time, they’ve never sounded as unified or as confident in their musical identity. From the atmospheric opener “Datura (Dawn)” to the irresistible hooks of “HEAT ME UP,” the album delivers a relentless display of Boston Manor’s signature intensity paired with newfound creativity.
Tracks like “Container” offer choppy guitar riffs and infectious choruses that will likely be stuck in your head for days, while “Sliding Doors” takes listeners on an emotional journey with Henry Cox’s dynamic vocal performance. The song effortlessly moves between subtle verses and explosive, cathartic choruses, showcasing the band’s ability to create tension and release in a way that feels both natural and thrilling.
One of the album’s standout tracks, “HEAT ME UP,” is a perfect distillation of everything Boston Manor does well—catchy, energetic, and unabashedly fun. Even those unfamiliar with the band’s work might find themselves nodding along, proving the accessibility of their sound without sacrificing depth. On the opposite end, “Fornix” simmers with carefully managed tension, showcasing the band’s knack for layering textures and dynamics to create an immersive listening experience.
Horses In A Dream brings a lighter, almost sun-soaked vibe, offering a moment of respite amidst the darker and moodier songs. Meanwhile, “Why I Sleep” tugs at the heartstrings with its emotive melodies and thoughtful construction. The keyboards, which appear subtly throughout the album, play a more prominent role in tracks like “Dissolve,” adding an extra layer of atmosphere that complements the band’s sound without overpowering it.
If there’s one slight misstep, it’s in the closing track, “DC Mini.” Featuring metalcore band Heriot, it teases a climactic chaos that never fully materializes, leaving a bit of an unfulfilled expectation. Yet, even this minor critique doesn’t detract from the overall success of the album.
Boston Manor continues to draw influence from a variety of sources, with hints of Deftones and Depeche Mode peeking through their sound, but they’ve undeniably crafted something uniquely their own. Sundiver is a masterclass in blending diverse elements into a polished, satisfying whole, proving once again that this band knows no creative boundaries.
