Sixties garage rock has never truly gone out of style. Initially revived by bands like The White Stripes and The Strokes, it has since lived comfortably in its niche. The Mystery Lights had a chance to bring it back into the spotlight with their debut album in 2016.
The band approached their music with enthusiasm and energy, bringing a dose of New York coolness. However, it only got them to mid-sized stages, and after 2019’s Too Much Tension, they became a bit rarer to see live.
Now, they’re making a small comeback with Purgatory (Wick). The Mystery Lights are regrouped and full of drive, pouring a thousand ideas into this record.
The first tracks hop from one retro style to another, peaking with “Sorry I Forgot Your Name,” which even delves into country. In the final third, the New Yorkers pull it together, settling into a better, albeit melancholic, flow. The highlight comes with “Cerebral Crack,” a very intense track.
Is this the big breakthrough? Or will they quietly slip out the door forever? We hope to see them live a few more times before that happens.
The Mystery Lights – Purgatory: Retro rock with a hint of nostalgia. – RIFL
