The Brian Jonestown Massacre: “Makes Me Great”/”Out of Body” Single Review

Jules Caldeira is an Associate Editor for Film Inquiry based…
Following a UK/European tour and just in time for summer, The Brian Jonestown Massacre have released a new single. Dubbed a “double A-side” release, “Makes Me Great” and “Out of Body” are a one-two punch of the bluesy, psychedelic rock ‘n’ roll that they’ve become famous for over the past three decades. Starting with an acoustic guitar and a bouncy cadence, “Makes Me Great” quickly builds into a groove right at home in BJM’s repertoire. It’s new, yet familiar in a way that longtime fans as well as new will appreciate. Growing up on 90s rock and alternative, the tone of the guitars and the drum kit feel nostalgic in a way I didn’t think a new song could.

The second A-side, “Out of Body,” feels like such an experience. Kicking right in with snare, then jumping between time signatures behind dreamlike guitars and keys before hitting a crescendo with a trumpet, this track has everything. The instruments are layered in such a dynamic way with the vocal tone seemingly the only constant, and it reaffirms the talent and musicianship that has made The Brian Jonestown Massacre a force in rock ‘n’ roll. In addition to streaming, the single is also getting a vinyl release on frontman Anton Newcombe’s own label, A Recordings. Give this a listen before they head out on their North American tour this fall.
“Makes Me Great”/”Out of Body” can be pre-saved here.
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Jules Caldeira is an Associate Editor for Film Inquiry based in Sacramento, CA. He's a drummer, part-time screenwriter, and full-time Disney history nerd who can be found on social media when he remembers to post, and can be contacted at [email protected].