Album Review: Bog Queen

Founding member of The Dance Exponents, legendary drummer Harry Harallambi, and Stanley Manthyng, lead singer of World Gone Wild, have just dropped their debut self-titled album as Bog Queen. This 11-track record is packed with gems, from Destination Unknown to Everybody Here. The album has an undeniable groove and flow throughout. As expected, the record is driven by beautiful rhythm and drum tracks led by the legendary Harallambi, while Manthyng’s vocals dance alongside – unique, elegant and raw.

The album opens with an Ode To Jill, a really funky, upbeat song that brings light and optimism to the start of the record. The track sets the tone for what is a truly energetic, colourful and beautiful album.

It’s a very strong record with well-written and well-arranged songs. A few personal favourites include The Other Guy, which is upbeat and immediately engaging. The lyrics are catchy and well written and, as the title suggests, speak of a relationship where the partner is in love with someone else – “the other guy”.

This is followed by Walking Away, another beautiful song that demands your attention. It talks about a man wanting to be seen and to feel wanted. It’s a lovely track and one that really stands out on the record for me.

Overall, this is a great album where the musicianship really shines through – you can tell these guys know exactly what they’re doing. Show What You’ve Got is another standout, showing their diverse skills and ability to change it up. This time it’s moodier, with a hint of melancholy. Manthyng’s vocals are again haunting and beautiful, and the song feels personal and reflective.

Bog Queen have unleashed something special here. The album carries a wonderful energy and vibe – deeply nostalgic, yet modern and beautiful. You can tell they had fun making this record, and it’s definitely one worth adding to the summer playlist.

Well done to Harry Harallambi and Stanley Manthyng on what is a really interesting and beautiful record. It flows incredibly well and takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions. The musicianship is simply wonderful and impressive, with the vocals, drums and keys giving the album an elegant feel while still firmly rooted in rock ’n’ roll. You can really hear the 70’s and 80’s rock influences, with hints of Bowie shining through.