New Model Army just released an orchestral live album. Given how little I like most live albums, I am here to say this one is one of the best I have heard in recent years. The sound quality is pristine, and Justin Sullivan’s tone poems are totally transformed by the orchestral treatment. I appreciate hearing a live recording with a gathering of appreciative fans, all the more so because of the pandemic and how it isolated us all. Sinfonia was recorded at Tempodrom, Berlin on July 15th, 2022, with New Model Army and Sinfonia Leipzig, a full-scale orchestra, conducted by Cornelius During. All songs have been arranged for orchestra by the band’s long-time friend and guest violinist Shir-Ran Yinon. The songs are tightly integrated, and that is a reflection on the marvellous arrangements.
The opening ‘Overture’ reminds one of cinematic treats like Lord of the Rings, and it is bold and gorgeous. ‘Devil’s Bargain’ is ominous and tremendous, a sonic grey haze overarching the sky, with the martial excitement of dual drum lines. Wow! The brass and strings are just icing on the cake. ‘Devil’ is heavier and equally cool. ‘Innocence’ is one of my favourites here. I like how it starts up very simply and then the band comes in. And that chorus with the rapid staccato drum beats, so very neat! ‘Winter’ is another favourite, a devastating tune about climate change that I have always loved. Band leader Justin Sullivan is a passionate singer, and he feels every bit of this. I also dig ‘March in September’. It has a kickin’ backbeat and reminds me of Celtic folk rock, only on a much larger musical canvas.
‘1984’ is another new to me song, and I find myself listening closely to the lyrics, as they are so evocative and meaningful. It is wonderful to hear the stunning ‘Marry the Sea’ in this orchestral context, as I remember loving this tune when I first heard it. And oh, ‘Ocean Rising’ is just mesmerising here. In its original form, it was superlative, but the orchestral touches add the feel of water and waves rolling by. Sullivan’s respect for natural elements and their preservation is appreciated by this fan. The story behind this song is a chronicle of Sullivan’s time on a freighter, weathering horrible storms and writing songs like this about his experience.
‘Ballad’ is dark and fraught with despair, but there are strands of hope woven into the song. I love the rumble and thunder of ‘Guessing’, and the marriage of orchestra and rock band is flawless. ‘Lullaby’ is akin to a mult-faceted crystal, and then it shatters, and you are wrecked. I lost a friend recently and this really speaks to me.’Did You Make It Safe?’ seems to draw in the audience as part of the song, and that is touching. ‘Purity’ weaves all that is great about New Model Army, and the stark, deeply felt lyrics strike at the heart. And I think Sullivan and the band have never sounded better! The final song here is ‘Wonderful Way To Go’, which is specially treated with dark symphonic swells that crank up the anxiety. The slow, graceful guitar coming in with a swell of strings is a masterful stroke. And then at 2:03, New Model Army kicks into high gear, pulling this straight into orbit!
This is a fantastic live album for all fans of New Model Army, orchestral pop, and deeply meaningful lyrics from a master poet. Terrific work!
