Description
The Cult – Under The Midnight Sun – Vinyl Record
Under the Midnight Sun is the eleventh studio album by British rock band The Cult, released on October 7, 2022. Known for their gothic rock, post-punk, and hard rock influences, The Cult returns with this album after a six-year hiatus since Hidden City (2016). Produced by Tom Dalgety, who has worked with acts like Ghost and Royal Blood, Under the Midnight Sun takes the band’s signature dark and atmospheric sound and gives it a refined, cinematic edge.
The album’s title, Under the Midnight Sun, is inspired by the unique natural phenomenon in northern regions where the sun remains visible at midnight during the summer. Vocalist Ian Astbury has described the title as a reflection on moments of transcendence, and the music captures a mystical, almost otherworldly feel. The band members, including Astbury and guitarist Billy Duffy, were influenced by the isolation of the pandemic, channeling introspective themes of time, existential reflection, and nature into the album.
Musically, Under the Midnight Sun combines the lush, atmospheric sounds of The Cult’s post-punk origins with powerful rock instrumentation. The album recalls the mystical and gothic tones of their early work but with a modern production that feels both fresh and timeless. Tom Dalgety’s production brings depth to the sound, allowing space for ethereal textures, reverb-heavy guitars, and Astbury’s powerful vocals.
Key Tracks
\”Mirror\” – Opening the album, \”Mirror\” sets the tone with haunting melodies and introspective lyrics. Astbury’s vocals are particularly emotive, and the song explores themes of self-reflection and identity. Duffy’s shimmering guitar work recalls the band’s early post-punk sound.
\”A Cut Inside\” – This track is one of the album\’s highlights, with a driving beat and moody guitar riffs. Astbury’s vocals are intense, delivering lyrics that touch on internal conflict and resilience. The song’s anthemic quality makes it a standout.
\”Vendetta X\” – With a dark, almost brooding vibe, \”Vendetta X\” dives into themes of revenge and transformation. Duffy’s guitar tone is both haunting and powerful, adding a gothic rock feel that enhances the song’s intensity.
\”Give Me Mercy\” – A single released ahead of the album, \”Give Me Mercy\” brings together melody and melancholy. Its anthemic chorus and melodic guitar lines make it accessible while still retaining The Cult’s signature dark edge.
\”Outer Heaven\” – This track showcases the atmospheric side of the album, with rich textures and layered production. The song explores themes of transcendence, and Astbury’s lyrics evoke an otherworldly, mystical quality.
\”Impermanence\” – A reflective track that delves into themes of time and mortality, \”Impermanence\” uses both vocal intensity and lyrical depth to capture the album\’s introspective tone. It’s a powerful ballad with layered guitar melodies and ambient sounds.
\”Under the Midnight Sun\” – The title track closes the album with a cinematic feel, combining atmospheric synths, reverb-laden guitars, and Astbury’s dramatic vocals. It captures the ethereal, surreal inspiration behind the album’s concept, leaving the listener with a sense of awe and transcendence.
Under the Midnight Sun explores themes of introspection, nature, and spirituality, reflecting the sense of isolation and reflection brought on by recent global events. Astbury’s lyrics are poetic and introspective, touching on the cyclical nature of time and the search for deeper meaning. The album’s soundscape is lush and haunting, combining the band’s signature gothic rock elements with ambient production that gives it a cinematic quality.
Tom Dalgety’s production is instrumental in creating the album’s immersive sound. The combination of atmospheric guitar work, rich synth layers, and heavy reverb builds a darkly beautiful ambiance, reminiscent of the band’s early work but with a modern twist. Dalgety’s influence can be heard in the album’s polished yet raw sound, balancing The Cult’s powerful rock energy with a sense of space and depth.
Under the Midnight Sun has received favorable reviews, with critics and fans praising The Cult’s ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their roots. Many have noted that the album feels like a natural progression for the band, blending elements of gothic rock, post-punk, and hard rock in a way that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners. The album’s introspective themes and cinematic production have also been highlighted, showing The Cult’s commitment to creating music that is both thought-provoking and sonically compelling.
The Cult’s return with Under the Midnight Sun has been celebrated as a strong addition to their discography, reaffirming their status as influential figures in gothic and alternative rock. The album showcases their ability to tap into timeless themes and sounds, making it a powerful statement on resilience, self-reflection, and the beauty of the natural world.
Brand new, never played and in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
Mirror
A Cut Inside
Vendetta X
Give Me Mercy
Outer Heaven
Knife Through Butterfly Heart
Impermanence
Under The Midnight Sun
