Black Moth Super Rainbow : Soft New Magic Dream
Nearly a quarter-century after Thomas Fec (aka Tobacco) introduced his no-holds-barred, sensory-overload project Black Moth Super Rainbow, it’s still as zany, colorful, vibrant—and perhaps even vital—than ever. The arrival of BMSR’s newest studio album in seven years couldn’t be more appropriately timed, what with less manic but like-minded peers Stereolab having just made a seismic comeback of their own with their first record in 15 years.
Soft New Magic Dream isn’t another token reunion record. In fact, the group are energized enough about reviving the project to be planning nine concerts later this year. That excitement is entirely warranted. Building some fortitude was required before dropping the needle on BMSR’s previous records, which were as blissfully overwhelming and captivating—yet also thoroughly draining—as an hours-long hallucinogenic trip. Hearts ached for anyone with photosensitive conditions who showed up to a BMSR gig not knowing that strobes would be in effect pretty much from start to finish, a live-performance feat(ure) only outdone by chiller peers Broadcast.
And while “chill” is a term that no one would have picked to describe BMSR’s first four studio records or concerts in support of them, they finally cross that threshold after the longest drought between BMSR studio records thus far. It’d be easy to chalk up the band’s transition to maturity, but whether or not that was a contributing factor, Fec’s markedly refined craft is probably more responsible.
It’s not as if BMSR reveal their ability to make more sensual, slower songs in between more fast and furious fare, giving the listener a chance to catch their breath. To the contrary, that whispery, intimate strain is the main conceit of Soft New Magic Dream; accusations of false advertising will hold no water, as the album title containing the words “soft” and “new” tips the band’s hand. Aside from spaceship-soundtrack songs like “Tastebud,” “Wet Spot Dare” and “The Dropping Royalty,” the rest of the record feels very much down to earth, and easier to connect to, than BMSR’s past forays into the cosmos.
In fact, “All 2 of Us,” “Demon’s Glue” and “The Eyes in Season” are so smooth and minimalist, you’ll inevitably check your device to make sure what you are listening to is indeed BMSR. One can’t help but wonder if Fec would’ve gone to the trouble of making another BMSR record, seven-year itch notwithstanding, had he not found it possible to create a new iteration of his project by painting with a lighter brush. In doing so, he makes the rainbow that is BMSR all the more magical.
Label: Red Cult
Year: 2025
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