Kingdom of Mustang’s latest offering, Glad Days, is a harmonious homage to the power and jangle pop of the ’70s and ’80s, evoking the spirit of bands like Shoes, Big Star, The Byrds, and The Records. With their penchant for two and three-part harmonies and a democratic approach to song selection, the band has crafted an album that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly authentic. In a bold move, the band decided to capture their essence live, eschewing the overdubs that characterized their previous albums. This decision pays off in spades, presenting Glad Days as a raw, unfiltered experience that harkens back to an era where bands sounded live on record. The result is an album that feels immediate and intimate, a testament to the band’s chemistry and shared vision.
The album kicks off with the title track “Glad Days,” a genre-blending opener that infuses elements of punk, classic rock, and more. The hooks are plentiful, and the harmonies are reminiscent of ’50s pop, setting a high bar for the rest of the album. This track alone showcases Kingdom of Mustang’s ability to seamlessly blend their influences into something unique and compelling. “Talk Talk Talk” follows with the urgency of ’70s English punk, not as aggressive as the Sex Pistols but clearly influenced by that era. The energy is palpable, and the band’s tight performance makes it one of the standout tracks.
Tracks like “The End From The Middle” and the eponymous “Glad Days” further cement Kingdom of Mustang’s sound, with subtle nods to the flower power era of the late ’60s. These songs highlight the band’s knack for melody and their ability to create songs that are both catchy and meaningful. “Say Hey To Blue” keeps the momentum going, its upbeat tempo and infectious chorus making it a memorable addition to the album. But it’s “All You’ve Got To Do Is Love” that truly stands out. With its classic groove and adrenaline-pumping rhythm, this track showcases the band’s meticulous songcraft and ability to create music that feels both timeless and contemporary.
The Beatles-esque “Far From The Loneliness” is one of the most emotive tracks on the album. The song’s melancholic lyrics and haunting melody evoke the spirit of the Fab Four while making it distinctly their own. It’s a beautiful moment of introspection and vulnerability that adds depth to the album. The closer, “An Ordinary Man,” is a testament to the band’s cohesive chemistry. The drummer shines, the organ adds depth, and the ascending vocals paired with exceptional guitar work bring the album to a satisfying conclusion. This track encapsulates the band’s ability to create music that is both powerful and poignant, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
Glad Days will resonate deeply with those who grew up on this sound, but it also serves as a testament to Kingdom of Mustang’s ability to blend their influences into a signature style that feels both timeless and contemporary. The band’s commitment to capturing their live essence, coupled with their democratic approach to song selection, results in an album that is authentic, heartfelt, and thoroughly enjoyable. Each track on Glad Days feels carefully crafted and lovingly performed, making it a standout release in a sea of overproduced records. In a music landscape often dominated by synthetic sounds and digital perfection, Kingdom of Mustang’s Glad Days is a refreshing return to the basics. It’s an album that celebrates the power of live performance and the beauty of unadorned musicianship. With its rich harmonies, tight instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics, Glad Days is a testament to the enduring appeal of jangle pop and power pop, and a reminder of why this genre continues to captivate listeners decade after decade.
Garth Thomas