The Cult - Born Into This

Reliable Brit-riffage

We’ve missed The Cult, who haven’t really been a viable presence on the British rock scene since 1989’s excellent, overblown Sonic Temple. Early-90s grunge and early 00s alt rock both made them look a bit old and tired, meaning that it’s taken till now for a window to re-open for them, thanks to the resurgence in classic rock’s fortunes. Thankfully, Born Into This (despite its frankly boastful title) is a rather tasty comeback, piling on all the Cult trademarks that made them so enjoyable the first time around. There’s Ian Astbury laying on the self conscious rock style (“Yay-uh!” etc), Billy Duffy and his one-finger lead guitar hooks, and plenty of plagiarism of AC/DC and Zeppelin riffs, but thankfully no lyrics about Native Americans. Fans will dive right into Citizens, with its super-catchy descending bassline, and the unashamed singles chart fodder of Dirty Little Rockstar. Others will be left speechless by the sheer gall of Illuminated, which nicks the intro of The Who’s Substitute with breathtaking nonchalance. The result is an album with big riffs, big atmospheres and big ambitions; the very reasons why, for most of us, The Cult are supposed to exist. Good job.

Roadrunner | RR 79712

Reviewed by Joel McIver
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