My New Band Believe Album Review
(Today I’m reviewing the new “My Band Believe’s” self-titled album. It’s my first review of their projects, actually my first rock album review. So yeah, it’s kinda crazy for me. I’m a big fan of Alternative Rock, so this is interesting. I had to see if this album reminds me of something or not.)
Over the past few years, Cameron Picton carved out a sharp, unpredictable lane in the UK’s experimental scene as bassist and occasional vocalist for black midi. On the surface, it looked like controlled chaos—jagged riffs, wild shifts, and that signature post-punk energy. But underneath, you could always hear his sense of space and restraint holding everything together.
He didn’t just ride the wave and fade. Black midi built serious buzz with their shape-shifting records, and Picton always felt like the quiet anchor. When the band wrapped things up, he didn’t rush into a straight solo project. Instead, he started pulling in whoever was around—left-field collaborators, improv players, people from the same London scene.
That flexibility has always been part of his appeal. One minute he’s anchoring frantic live shows, the next he’s building something more open and acoustic. He fits into the chaos, but you can tell he’s thinking like a composer the whole time.
What’s changed now is the approach. There’s more breathing room, more trust in the players around him. That’s where My New Band Believe comes in. This feels like one of those moments where an artist either refines everything they’ve been circling or opens up a new chapter.
The album “My New Band Believe” is mostly built on acoustic, raw production, which is strong and risky at the same time. The arrangement features acoustic guitars, strings, pianos, and woodwinds. Even with that raw sound, it brings in over 40 collaborators, which is surprising. It doesn’t chase polish or radio-friendly hits. It leans into live-sounding, minimal textures. The production shifts between grand romantic moments, intimate folk, and chamber-punk waves. Honestly, I don’t usually like folk, maybe because of my age, but this album really pulled me in. It’s detailed but still loose—spacious one second, packed with ideas the next.
Even on my first listen, this album reminded me of my high school days, when I used to sing acoustic rock songs with friends. It feels nostalgic and takes me back to those moments.
The songwriting here is a clear step forward for Cameron Picton. All tracks are written by him, and this time the lyrics and music feel developed together—often with him singing while playing guitar. The wild characters and satire from black midi are gone. Instead, he blurs perspectives, moving between first-person and an unnamed “you” without clear signals. As a performer, Picton fully steps into the spotlight as the sole lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist. His voice—thin, guileless, sometimes falsetto—feels warmer and more vulnerable than before.
The album opens with “Target Practice,” and it gives instant childish, nostalgic vibes. It’s a breezy opener that sets the tone. Acoustic-led, with a choir-like swell, it feels cold in a good way. For me, it’s the first real hit of nostalgia on the album.
Moving forward, “In The Blink Of An Eye” is built on beautifully constructed symphonies with cathartic bursts. The production keeps that live, off-kilter feel. It gives old-school vibes with clever lines and jarring instrumentation.
“Love Story” is a nostalgic, romantic track with an intimate and lush sound. It’s ridiculously romantic with its piano-led ballad style, upright bass, and slightly off orchestral touches. It has real emotional depth. One of my favorite tracks here.
“Actress” runs eight minutes and 20 seconds, like “Heart Of Darkness.” Just like that track, this one feels powerful and intentional. The arrangement is slow-building chamber-folk that grows into a more manic, repeating chorus. It’s oddly calming, with those old-school positive vibes. Big highlight for me. I’m getting strong acoustic rock energy here.
I liked almost all the songs on this album. I can easily go back to most of them. But “Pearls” doesn’t hit the same. Instead of that nostalgic feel, it leans into a discordant jazz sound that feels a bit seasick. I don’t like the shift into chaotic brass, strings, and that wall of sound at the end.
“My New Band Believe” is a very nostalgic album that reminds me of a lot from my childhood. It’s easy to listen to, even with its raw acoustic style. The songwriting and vocal performances stay solid throughout. For me, it’s one of the best raw albums this year so far, and I felt a lot while listening to it. But if you’re used to mainstream stuff, this might not be it, especially with some of the longer tracks.)
[Rating: 8/10]
- Favorite Tracks: Target Practice, In The Blink Of An Eye, Heart Of Darkness, Love Story, Opposite Teacher, Actress
- Least Favorite Tracks: Pearls
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If you liked this review, you can check out my other reviews: