REVIEW: The XCERTS - i think i want to go home now
- Laura Davies
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
For more than two decades, THE XCERTS have taken the music world by storm with their alternative music style that seems to stand out from the crowd. Their sixth album i want to go home now is one that proves that longevity of this Scottish born, Brighton based trio doesn’t mean that passion and talent has to be compromised or sacrificed.
The opening song of the album is a short and haunting interlude that is full of emotion. Named after the album title, this emotionally fuelled song leaves lead singer Murray Macleod repeating the words i think i want to go home now in a fraught plea. No sooner has this song ended, does the album burst into do it to myself, that is packed full of energy and nostalgia with Tom Heron’s drums channelling through the song. The song almost feels fitting for an early noughties TV teen drama and feels akin to a song from a BIFFY CLYRO album with the energy levels that exude.
wow comes in even harder with the nostalgia factor with a nod and feel that it could have almost been lifted from a previous album. With perfect blends of acoustics and harsh noise it gives the essence of FEEDER’s early work and a sound that screams summer fun. sinking feeling gives a more modern feel that feels like a slower break from the noise whilst still keeping up the momentum.
There feels like an almost cinematic sense to the album with each track feeling like it would be fitting to be added to an angsty soundtrack. With themes running through consisting of life experiences and facing adversity, it’s clear to see how relatable this album can be to the masses. This is particularly apt in the song bury you which is arguably one of the best tracks of the album with the lyrics ‘all you do is give, give, give and you’re gonna break’ feeling poignant to the themes that lie within the album. The song feels punchy and punky from the get go yet leads into the softer rinse repeat. Giving us an almost ballad-like feel, this heart wrenching song truly feels like the perfect break in an otherwise high octane album.
The second half of the album feels much like the first, packed with nostalgia, emotion, and everything in between. pretty ugly blends power vocals with incredible breakdowns whilst dream you in feels like it has stepped out of FEEDER’s Comfort in Sound album in the best way. A true testament to how a band like THE XCERTS can create a shoegaze style ballad for the ages.
The last three songs end the album with a bang. Leaning into the vulnerabilities of the themes of the album breathe in what was leaving Macleod singing the lyrics "I’d give anything to feel anything at all" to unravel the layers of heartache and anguish to the listener. The album finishes with in your eyes, a song that feels like the perfect ending to this emotionally charged album. Starting soft and ending with a breakdown that juxtaposes the first half of the song to give a fitting ending.
THE XCERTS have taken a while to get back to where they started and the album title feels fitting for the feel of the album. Wanting to get back to their roots and reconnect with what truly make them a brilliant band. This album is one that will last the test of time and is truly an alternative masterpiece.
Score: 8/10
i think i want to go home now will be released on 10th July 2026 via FLG.
Words: Laura Davies
Photos: Sam Carter
Comments