Review: JD Garrahy
Over 30 years of penning songs is enough to refine any band. But when that band is Bush, you find a group that discovered their sound early on and has ensured every album since is worthy of critical acclaim. I Beat Loneliness is no exception. Strap in, kids—it’s time for me to review the latest offering from one of my favourite bands.
First things first: don’t go into this album expecting another Sixteen Stone or Razorblade Suitcase. While those albums were phenomenal in launching this incredible band into the spotlight, Bush has since evolved into a rock behemoth. They fill massive venues, continue to churn out unforgettable songs, and still deliver the fan service we crave.
Opening track Scars kicks into gear immediately, proving that Bush is putting their best foot forward right from the start. The momentum continues with the title track I Beat Loneliness. Just when I thought I was hooked, The Land of Milk and Honey took me by surprise—what an incredible song from start to finish. It captures the same angsty energy of earlier works, layered with a hefty rock groove and crushing bass undertones. Give me this song live, blasted directly into my earholes. I’d happily risk a perforated eardrum for that experience.
The middle of the album maintains the pace, never wavering from their signature sound. The bass lines, coupled with an incredible percussive cacophony, take me right back to feeling 16 again. If I had to pick a standout (tough ask, since every song holds its own), it would be 60 Ways to Forget People. What starts as a theatrical intro quickly launches into the heavy rock sound we know and love. The harmonics and dominant drumming give this track real depth—absolutely outstanding.
As the album nears its end, the tempo slows, and we’re treated to some beautifully emotional moments. We Are of This World tells a compelling story of unity and proves that even after more than 30 years, Gavin Rossdale’s voice remains as flawless as it was when we first heard Glycerine. Following that, Don’t Be Afraid continues the emotional thread—heartfelt, intimate, and perfectly placed. The track order on this album was clearly chosen with care.
Footsteps in the Sand starts off with an electronica-heavy intro and verse, but midway through, the distortion kicks in, turning the track into one of the more complex and creatively daring pieces on the album. It’s great to see Bush stretching themselves, exploring different musical textures to achieve their sound.
And then we arrive at the closer: Rebel With a Cause. Absolutely perfect. Not only does it showcase Gavin Rossdale’s vocal range, but it also reflects his lyrical evolution. The raw beauty of this track stands out—it’s a fitting and powerful end to the album.
As I said at the beginning, this is not the Bush you once knew. This is a band that has weathered the storm of the music industry, faced every challenge, endured the criticism, and come back with a defiant: “What else you got?” If you’re looking for an album that transports you back to your teen years while acknowledging how far you’ve come, look no further. Bush isn’t going anywhere—and for that, I’m truly thankful.
Bush – I Beat Loneliness is out now via earMUSIC.
Order the album HERE
