After heaping effusive praise on their singles “19 Homes” and “Selfish You,” I wasn’t sure what I had left to say about MARVELL. However, the more I listened to their EP Comfort is King, the more I knew I had to find the words. Because this is one of those EPs that deserves to be celebrated.
The EP serves up those two singles first, reminding us just what we loved about them before launching into new material. I’ve listened to both tracks so many times but they’re still sounding fresh. Those songs have a blues-rock energy that just won’t quit, ensuring we’re having fun before MARVELL hits us with the heavy stuff. The next track “Needle” introduces a very different side of Marvell, the band who’s unafraid to expose their vulnerabilities. Its lyrics recount the drummer’s journey with testicular cancer, and it hits every bit as hard as you might expect. “Honey” and closing number “All Of It” are unexpectedly sweet. You won’t find love songs more authentic or romantic.
No matter what MARVELL turns their hands to, it sounds so good. They are in their element with a big horns section, delivering an energetic mix of blues, rock, and soul. But they’re also not afraid to show their softer side. It all sounds so easy, dare I say it, comfortable. If this is the magic these guys can create in their comfort zone, I’m not sure I ever want to hear them out of it.
Comfort is King is out now. MARVELL will play the following shows in February and March to celebrate its release.
10 February 2022 – Sol Bar, Sunshine Coast
11 February 2022 – Greaser Bar, Brisbane
25 February 2022 – The Vanguard, Sydney
6 March 2022 – North Gong Hotel, Wollongong
26 March 2022 – Narrabeen RSL, Narrabeen
Images used with permission from On the Map PR
