Review: Rob Marshall's Humanist project returns with On the Edge of a Lost and Lonely World, an album that expands upon the acclaimed debut with a deeper exploration of its sonic landscape. Known for his work with Exit Calm and collaborations on Mark Lanegan's albums, Marshall emerges as a songwriter, composer, and producer with a distinctive vision. The album showcases a diverse cast of vocal talents, including Dave Gahan, Isobel Campbell, Ed Harcourt and others, each contributing to a rich blend of emotions and themes. While the debut album leaned heavily into gothic industrial tones, this sophomore effort broadens the palette to include moments of light and shade. From the feathery guitar washes reminiscent of My Bloody Valentine on 'Love You More' to the introspective musings captured in tracks like 'Holding Pattern' and 'The Immortal,' the album navigates through themes of isolation, loss, and introspection. The journey to this release was marked by personal and global challenges, including Marshall's battle with illness and the tragic loss of collaborator Mark Lanegan. Yet, these adversities seem to have fueled Marshall's artistic introspection, resulting in an album that resonates with emotional subtlety and depth. This album is profound exploration of life's existential questions through its nuanced compositions and poignant lyrics.
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