In October 2021, I reviewed Momus' previous album and a couple of new songs, only one of which (Orchestras) has subsequently made it to Smudger.
Lifting the promo blurb from Momus' own website, "The title refers to the act of
deliberately making something blurred or dirty, and (this being Momus)
also to David Bowie's album Lodger. Other cultural figures referenced
range from Harry Champion to Benjamin Britten, and topics swing from
insects to influencers to isolation."
It's a 17 track, 55 minute "double album" (were it available on vinyl, which sadly it's not) and from a couple of preview listens, Momus is reassuringly inspired as ever. The opening couple of songs are reminiscent of 1992's Voyager, which together with the following year's Timelord was about as close as Momus ever got to dance music. Musically, it's more familiar territory from there on in, but none the worse for it.
Lyrically, in addition to the wide ranging references and topics above, Momus retains a focus on sex, bodily functions and human failings with his usual flair for language and wit.
If you're not moved by Momus' previous work, this is very unlikely to be the album to change your mind. If you're completely new to Momus, then this is as good a starting point as some of his earlier albums on Creation Records. Don't be daunted by the vast back catalogue, I only have a relatively small number of Momus songs and no realistic prospect of owning the lot, but it's always rewarding when I dive into this sea of songs.
Over the last few months, Momus has been uploading videos for each of Smudger's songs to his YouTube page, so you can listen to the entire album here or individual tracks via the links below. The lyrics are also available on the iMomus website, to accompany your listening and viewing experience.
Returning to the press releases, "What exactly is Smudger smudging, then? With a joyful, playful smear the
album blurs past and present, self and other, tradition and innovation,
mockery and respect. On the smudging finger, though, always the
distinctive Momus print."
1) January
2) Stop The Body
3) Disappear
4) Orchestras
5) Bartleby
6) Supervillain
7) Midnight Sun
8) Friends
9) Smudge
10) The Coffee Professor
11) Influencer Village
12) Totentanz
13) Pesky Blighters
14) Bergreise
15) Peter Grimes
16) Night Clinic
17) Friendly World
2) Stop The Body
3) Disappear
4) Orchestras
5) Bartleby
6) Supervillain
7) Midnight Sun
8) Friends
9) Smudge
10) The Coffee Professor
11) Influencer Village
12) Totentanz
13) Pesky Blighters
14) Bergreise
15) Peter Grimes
16) Night Clinic
17) Friendly World
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