monochrome set: platinum coils

After a seventeen-year absence, the Monochrome Set return with their new CD, Platinum Coils, the band's tenth studio album, and the long awaited follow up to 1995's Trinity Road. Realising success from the outset with their first single Alphaville back in 1979, the Monochrome Set were one of the first wave of ‘post-punk’ bands. A sixteen-year career followed, with memorable singles, Eine Symphonie des Grauens, The Monochrome Set, The Jet Set Junta, Jacob’s Ladder and a whole bunch of classic LPs, Strange Boutique, Love Zombies, Eligible Bachelors and Lost Weekend (to name but a few), along the way. Right from the beginning, the band earned a solid reputation as purveyors of fine pop, gaining praise from ‘80s contemporaries such as Morrissey and Edwyn Collins. Importantly, in later years, this praise has continued with artists such as Franz Ferdinand, the Divine Comedy and Graham Coxon, all citing the band as a key influence on their own work. The Monochrome Set sound has often been described as ‘timeless’, and that alone explains why, over the years, the band has continued gaining admirers. The new twelve track CD, Platinum Coils, possesses all the hallmarks of a classic work, and for those already acquainted with the bands back catalogue, it will contain a warming familiarity, but, that said, more importantly, it shows that the band are both unafraid to break new ground and not prepared to trade on past accolade alone. Lyrically, the Monochrome Set have always been known for their witty and observant prose. ‘Platinum Coils’ is no different in this respect. Although perhaps just a touch more personal, largely focusing upon singer Bid’s recovery from a very serious illness. That said, it’s not a collection of melancholic, morbid or self-reflective ramblings it's much more, a witty, yet occasionally poignant, collection of snatched personal thoughts, born at a time of great duress. In short, all one might expect from Bid, albeit with a slight lyrical twist of the surgeon's knife. With Platinum Coils, the Monochrome Set retain their ‘trade mark’ sound, whilst also, excitingly, advancing it into new areas. For those encountering the group for the first time, Platinum Coils will offer a rich treasure trove of pop gems, and will perhaps just as excitingly, point the uninitiated listener towards the bands rich back catalogue. Expect Platinum Coils to bring the Monochrome Set further accolades and tributes. It’s a fine work. The sabbatical has ended. Pop’s Black and White Minstrels are back, you can stop holding your breath!