mekons ancient & modern

the mekons latest disc, ancient & modern, has apparently been done for quite a while.  the banter in 2009 at the mercury lounge show--the first time i heard 'space in your face'--seemed to imply the album was done or almost done and would be out relatively soon.  25 months later, it's out, and it's a doozy.  the overarching concept of parallels between the edwardian era and this modern time gives the band an opportunity and excuse to stretch beyond the conventional rock/country/folk style(s) and to hit some historical themes of war and upheaval as well.  it's an interesting and engaging work.  while it's not the return to rock 'n roll or anything, it grows more entrancing with each listen and the arc of songs do indeed work well as a complete work even if there's no clumsy concept-album narrative.  having seen both of the recent nyc shows, i can also say that the songs on the album fit extremely well into the mekons live show set.  i first heard 'space' in 2009, and the 2011 version rocked even harder.  'arthur's angel', 'i fall asleep', 'geeshie' and 'honey bear' were also highlights of the recent shows, giving even more depth to new album.  i like it.  so will you.  if the middle period mekons, from fear and whiskey to retreat from memphis--i know, but i fucking love that album even if langford dissed it and none of the songs are concert stalwarts; it's a strong, lean, rocking album when the band was a core foursome--was an astounding run of perhaps the greatest rock 'n whatever music ever, then ancient & modern is a fabulous addition to the later period, starting with journey to the end of the night, or perhaps me if you like that self-consciously odd and profane along with renaissance-maniac lu edmonds helming the pro tools, that features such interesting, dark and complex music.