For a while there, it was looking as though Glaswegian post-rock outfit Mogwai had reached their creative peak. The quintet, who have long reigned as instrumental rock overlords, were suddenly sounding depleted of ideas. Stagnation was creeping in up until the release of last year’sRave Tapes, which saw a reinvigorated Mogwai experimenting with a broader spectrum of synth sounds, krautrock influences and electronic textures.
As a counterpart to the album, Music Industry 3. Fitness Industry 1. offers three new tracks recorded during the sessions that produced Rave Tapes, alongside a trio of remixes. Leading out the EP is ‘Teenage Exorcists’, with its mix of everything you’d least expect from Mogwai: a distinct pop sensibility, infectious chorus, and some My Bloody Valentine-esque vocals all packed into a neat three-and-a-half minutes. The other two originals, ‘History Day’ and ‘HMP Shaun William Ryder’, are a little underwhelming in comparison.
For a band that’s built a reputation on creating epic instrumental soundscapes, the unlikely pop-inflected jam of ‘Teenage Exorcists’ opens up some interesting avenues. Only time will tell if Mogwai will continue down this path.
3/5.
Music Industry 3. Fitness Industry 1.is out now through Rock Action.
