Not only had
the Bats been making records for over 40 years when 2025's
Corner Coming Up was released, but their quality had never dipped even a little. Every record has featured intricate guitar interplay, chugging rhythms, melodic bass lines,
Robert Scott's wistful lead and
Kaye Woodward's supportive harmony vocals, and songs that don't go for big gestures, instead zeroing in on the tiny moments that meld together to make or break a heart, or build a life. This album has exactly the same amount of those things as all their previous records, though now the specter of age has started to creep in around the edges. Not that they sound old in any way, but more that the weight of their catalog has grown to the point where they come across like wise tribal elders. There is no haste or waste on
Corner; the band take their time and make sure that every feeling is examined fully before being sent out into the air. It makes for a peaceful record with a centered soul, given a little extra depth by the occasional piano line that marches in stately fashion through the typically sparse arrangement or, as on the opening track "The Gown," a string section that hums in the background. Other songs have a pleasing amount of jangle, as expected, with languid tempos predominating, though it's not relaxed to the point of being sleepy. The occasional rippling guitar solo or a song that ratchets up the noise and tempo makes sure of that. In fact, the album's closer, "Loline," has all the cascading noise, thrumming rhythm, and insistent vocals one could want from indie rock. It's one of their best-ever rock songs and an exciting way to finish off yet another excellent
Bats album that proves they can still lift spirits, break hearts, and get toes tapping with the best of them. ~ Tim Sendra
