Review

Squid’s Cowards is an audacious, boundary-pushing record that firmly cements the band’s reputation as one of Britain’s most inventive musical forces. From the very first track, the album launches you into a swirling vortex of post-punk urgency, progressive flourishes, and experimental detours that refuse to play by any rules. Right from the opening moments, the record captivates with a dizzying interplay of jagged guitars, rumbling bass, and unpredictable percussion. The vocals—alternately raw and enigmatic—serve as both a rallying cry and a quiet confession, perfectly encapsulating the album’s title. There’s a palpable tension throughout, as if the band is waging a war against complacency, daring you to confront the fear and vulnerability that lie at the heart of modern existence. Yet, for all its kinetic energy, Cowards is never merely about the chaos. Squid exhibit a masterful control over their sprawling soundscapes, weaving moments of reflective calm into the more explosive passages. It’s in these quieter interludes that the true brilliance of the album shines through—a reminder that even amidst the din, there is space for introspection and delicate beauty. The production is impeccably crisp, capturing every experimental nuance with clarity. Whether it’s the hypnotic repetition of a bassline or the sudden, almost jarring shifts in tempo, each element is meticulously crafted to keep the listener off balance and fully engaged. In an era where too many acts are content to recycle tired tropes, Squid’s willingness to take risks is both refreshing and invigorating. In sum, Cowards is not just an album—it’s a bold statement of intent. It challenges its audience to abandon the familiar and embrace a more complex, unorthodox approach to rock music. For those willing to surrender to its relentless energy and unpredictability, Squid offer an exhilarating journey that is as intellectually stimulating as it is viscerally satisfying.