‘Outside’ Album Review

The Midnights are an all-original New Zealand soul roots reggae band that are very well known for their lives shows. They have a very classic approach with slower Roots Reggae reminiscent of old school Marley.

Their new 12 song album has unique lyrics and fresh sound, that could be described as a sort of smokey urban reggae meets a smidgen of ska.

The first track ‘Unsettled’ has a brilliant up beat harmony and back up singers that obviously know how what they are doing, and build the track superbly.

The tracks are very Marley-esque incorporating electric reggae guitar riffs and licks with a traditional relaxing calming rhythm.

‘2 Slow’ brings in more drum and change up the sound showing great versatility in the music that the midnights have perfected over their years of playing live music. The tempo lifts with a combination of rock guitar, drums under that timeless reggae guitar in ‘conspiracies’which changes temperament and introduces of a kind of chaotic brass section. This is probably my favourite track because it has so much going but synchronizes so well. ‘Sword and a Dagger’ returns to the guitar reggae and beautiful back up harmonies.

The whole album is an innovative experience that does nothing less than engage New Zealand with its reggae roots and a lifestyle that we love to embrace, especially in the summer. Great album to have on a Sunday afternoon chilling out in the sun.