Bobby Gillespie and Jehnny Beth - Utopian Ashes (Album Review)
Tuesday, 03 August 2021
Written by Jessica Howkins
Primal Scream frontman Bobby Gillespie and Savages vocalist Jehnny Beth aren’t necessarily a coupling most would piece together, but in truth neither have stuck rigidly to any sort of boundaries during their careers. To see their names side by side on ‘Utopian Ashes’ is a curiosity, and yet it works.
The concept behind the album details two lovers as they journey into the world of divorce and while Gillespie and Beth aren’t romantically involved, they do a grand job at making you feel as though this is their experience.
They breathe life into the emotions that surround events such as divorce—heartbreak, anger, betrayal, hope, peace—and their dynamic offers a glimpse into the harsh reality of that rollercoaster. It will perhaps hit a little too close to home for those who have experienced a difficult breakup.
But ‘Utopian Ashes’ also offers a sense of irony when it comes to the concept considering that Gillespie and Beth work beautifully together. Their vocal harmonies, particularly on Your Heart Will Always Be Broken, weave around one another, offering a sense of familiarity that some desire when going through a life-changing scenario.
Alongside their stunning interplay, the duo have seemingly grasped the classic country back and forth style of complementing each other’s sung lyrics—exchanging insults tainted with sorrow, or being able to finally be open about their feelings with a palpable sense of relief.
Gillespie and Beth have strayed from their paths and caught us off guard with a delicate and emotive approach. ‘Utopian Ashes’ is testament to the talent and innovation that they possess, and their bold step out of the box is what holds them up throughout. As painful as the album is emotionally, this is a partnership that works with such grace that it would be a disappointment to not see more from them in the future.
Bobby Gillespie and Jehnny Beth Upcoming Tour Dates are as follows:
Sun November 07 2021 - EDINBURGH Edinburgh Queens Hall
Mon November 08 2021 - GLASGOW Pavilion
Wed November 10 2021 - LONDON EartH (Theatre)
Thu November 11 2021 - LONDON EartH (Theatre)
Sat November 13 2021 - MANCHESTER Manchester Cathedral
Sun November 14 2021 - BRIGHTON Theatre Royal
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