Idlewild have always been a band in motion. Emerging from Edinburgh’s late-90s punk scene with a raw, feral energy, they quickly began stretching their sound into something more expansive, melodic, and literary. Over the decades, their catalogue has charted a restless search for balance between intensity and introspection, with each record adding new colours to their palette. Now, with their tenth album, the self-titled Idlewild, the band look both inward and forward, drawing strength from their history while embracing a bold new chapter.
The decision to self-title the album speaks volumes about their intent. As frontman Roddy Woomble explained, the band aimed to “reference ourselves… in a positive, creative way.” This philosophy is immediately reflected in the cover art, which serves as a visual homage to their seminal 1998 record, Hope Is Important. Musically, the album opens with a bang through the explosive lead single “Stay Out Of Place.” Its dynamic blend of pounding drums and edgy guitar riffs culminates in a soaring, emotive chorus that captures the essence of what Idlewild does best.
Following this energetic start, the album continues to impress with “Make It Happen,” a track that showcases perhaps the heaviest sound the band has produced in recent years. Guitarist Rod Jones brings a scuzzy, glam-rock flavour that amplifies the song’s triumphantly jagged edges. Yet, while the band appreciates their roots, Idlewild takes ambitious steps forward.
Tracks like “Writers of the Present Time” evoke the sweeping melodies characteristic of their acclaimed 2002 album, The Remote Part, while “It’s Not the First Time” glistens with the refined beauty reminiscent of their Warnings/Promises period. However, the standout moments of genuine progression shine through in songs like “The Mirror Still,” which is hauntingly minimalist. Driven by a striking bass line and atmospheric sounds, the track creates a contemplative space that allows listeners to breathe.
Moreover, “Permanent Colours” introduces an intriguing gothic synth-pop refinement, expressing a yearning for “more to life.” Clocking in at just over half an hour, Idlewild emerges as a fresh, purposeful, and powerful statement. The album artfully blends their melodic strengths with sophisticated musicianship and a newfound creative freedom. Woomble’s assertion that the band “contains multitudes” rings true throughout this collection of songs.
Rather than serving as a nostalgic exercise, Idlewild feels like a confident reintroduction. It’s an album that refuses to be boxed in by past achievements, instead pushing their sound into sharper, darker, and more adventurous territory. For a band a decade into double figures, the spark of invention remains alive, and on Idlewild, it burns brighter than it has in years.
