BANNERS Returns To His Roots On His Captivating Album “All Back to Mine”
By: Chris Buxton IG: @chrisbuxtonllg
When it comes to modern music, we as listeners yearn for artists and bands that push the boundaries. Although the music industry has become oversaturated, I often find hidden gems that I believe to be pioneering this new generation of artists. This week, I came across a Liverpool-based artist called BANNERS (aka Michael Joseph Nelson). BANNERS is unlike anything I have heard. He is raw, poignant, and I consider his music to be a breath of fresh air. Known for his exceptional brand of indie-pop, BANNERS enters our pages with his captivating album “All Back to Mine”.
“All Back to Mine” is a genre-defying album that takes listeners on a sonic journey they won’t want to end. Over the 12 well-crafted singles, the album reflects on his return to his Liverpool after 7 years spent in Canada. His ability to capture the optimistic energy of returning to his roots is evident. As you listen through the album, you will hear songs about romance, hope, loss, and triumph. For me, I consider this album to be his magnum opus. This is what BANNERS had to say about the album:
“I put my heartstrings all over this album. You want to fill your life with experiences, don't you? And the more of them, the better. I can't judge what's good and what isn't anymore. All I can do is try to make something that matters.”
Although the album is laced with phenomenal records, my favorite songs were "Name In Lights", "Perfectly Broken", "Anywhere For You", & “The Best View In Liverpool”. “Name In Lights” is a boisterous song that sets the tone of the album. The record is carried by a moving vocal performance that meshes well with ear-catching sonics. “Anywhere For You” is my personal favorite, and it’s a piano-driven song that allows the emotional depth of his vocals and tender lyrics to shine. “Perfectly Broken” features the talented Lily Meola, and this is surely the standout record. The harmonious vocals from both artists allow them to evoke raw emotions out of their listeners as they detail the effects of self-image and societal expectations in media. Touching on his roots, “The Best View In Liverpool” highlights the beauty and allure of the artist’s hometown. The focus of this song is to pinpoint that home is when you are with the people you love the most. No matter where you are, if you have your loved ones, you are home. Overall, this is one of my favorite albums so stream it below!
