Mark Lanegan Band and IYEARA have joined forces to remix his entire 2019 album Somebody’s Knocking – remixed and reimagined as Another Knock At The Door.
One of the hardest working musicians in the industry, Lanegan has been prolific releasing Gargoyle (2017), With Animals (2018), Somebody’s Knocking (2019), Straight Songs of Sorrow (2020) as well as the publication of his of warts and all biography Sing Backwards and Weep. Existing in the deepest, darkest recesses, and continuously experimenting with genre, Lanegan has shown a willingness to collaborate with fellow artists throughout his decorated career having formed Gutter Twins with Greg Dulli, released three album along with Isobel Campbell as well as working with the likes of Moby, Unkle and many more. Now, Lanegan has entrusted dark wave band IYEARA to remix his whole 2019 album, Somebody’s Knocking.
Another Knock At The Door is the first time he has given an entire album to another artist to rework, and IYEARA have hit a home run. Working with a record with a synth-heavy edge, IYEARA have not only complimented the original, but have created a record that offers an alternative, nuanced take that sits impressively alongside Somebody’s Knocking. From the futuristic soundscapes of ‘Letter Never Sent’ to the hypnotic ‘Dark Disco Jab’ playing out like Talk Talk on acid. IYEARA’s accent upon the tracks soar on debut single ‘Playing Nero’ as they introduce an industrial edge, deep, dark and brooding throughout. ‘War Horse’ plays out like an ode to The Human League while latest single ‘She Loved You’, ominous and introspective, bristles with paranoia from the first note to the last.
Another Knock At The Door is one of the most surprising albums of 2020 so far. Remix albums have the ability to be rather disparate with artists from various backgrounds adding their own, personal touch. The result is often a combination of interesting ideas and sonics often not quite the sum of their parts. IYEARA have not only added their influence from the first to last track, they have understood the source material and treated it with the love, care and a healthy smattering of talent to create a record that can legitimately sit alongside the original. Comprised of The Duke Spirit guitarist Toby Butler, producer Malcolm Carson and vocalist Paul O’Keeffe, the band have illustrated their ability to collaborate with fellow artists having worked with the likes of UNKLE, Humanist ft Dave Gahan, The Prodigy and many more. Another Knock At The Door is, though, their greatest work yet and certainly a candidate for one o the most surprising albums of the year.
Another Knock At The Door by Mark Lanegan Band and IYEARA is out now.