Amy Mahon 
Yesterday is gone,
Today I’m so on the run
From The Smiths to Modest Mouse, Johnny Marr has earned the title as one of the greats in the music industry. That being said, his newest work lets us know he’s ready for the next chapter.
Anyone who’s a fan of Marr’s prior work understands his musical ability to envision and sonically introduce a signature sound that captivates the masses. His newest EP, Fever Dreams Pt. 1, (which is just a portion of a double album) is just that with a dash of alternative progression.
Marr’s first notes in the earlier released single “Spirit Power and Soul” take an upbeat, realistic approach in his lyrics and charged tempo. It’s a refreshing display of encouragement compared to the more pensive work he had played in his earlier years.
The second track on the list “Receiver” comes in with electric intensity in his instrumentals; The industrial sound amongst the lyrics Do you receive? spotlights Marr’s songwriting abilities and real-life comparisons amongst his peers & industry. “All these days” whirls us into a sense of discomfort and illusion that was without a doubt partially inspired by piecing together the album during the pandemic. During an interview with Under The Mag, he explains that he “continued toiling on the music despite disrupted sleep, bizarre dreams, and generally elongated hours.” The song does keep a level of optimism found throughout,
Waking with my shadow
I heard it call me
We will find tomorrow
Marr underwrites his own familiarity with disassociated timelines due to keeping nocturnal hours, marrying his childhood habits, to his life on the road and then deep into lockdown. The album is considered aptly named after such experiences.
The last song off of the EP, “Ariel” is one of those open-ended songs you can listen to over and over, and always come up with a new takeaway. The addictive guitar riff in the verses keeps you hooked. Marr’s significant composition makes it a song we can take to heart, with our own meaning.
Fever Dreams Pt. 1 has set up admirers of Johnny’s work for a wild ride of new sound. Marr’s talent combined with mastery of his craft, makes Fever Dreams an album that delivers, whilst keeping to the foundation he’s laid down in the fabric of music.
Fever Dreams Pt. 1 is the first of four EPs, part of a collection of a featured double album.
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