English Teacher: A Deep Dive into Their Mercury Prize-Winning Album "This Could Be Texas"
This month, the Leeds-based band English Teacher made headlines by winning the prestigious Mercury Prize for their debut record, “This Could Be Texas.” As someone who missed the album upon its initial release, the award prompted me to explore their work, and what I found was a complex tapestry of influences and ideas that both intrigued and frustrated me.
Influences and Sound
From the outset, it’s clear that English Teacher wears their influences proudly on their sleeves. Their sound can be likened to the post-punk indie rock of bands like Black Country, New Road and Fontaines D.C. The album features a blend of spoken vocal delivery, intricate arrangements, and a multitude of crescendos that keep listeners on their toes. However, while the homage to these influences is evident, it sometimes borders on being overly derivative, leading to moments where the music feels repetitive and mundane.
The Concept of the “In-Between”
Lead singer Lily Fontaine has articulated that much of the album is rooted in her experiences of being in the “in-between,” whether that pertains to identity or circumstance. This thematic exploration is particularly evident in tracks like “R&B,” which showcases the band’s ability to deliver straightforward post-punk while embedding deeper narratives within the lyrics. Fontaine’s reflections on her identity and experiences with discrimination resonate powerfully, making “R&B” one of the standout tracks on the album.
Hook-Driven Highlights
English Teacher shines brightest when they lean into more straightforward, hook-driven tunes. “Nearly Daffodils” exemplifies this strength, featuring a fantastic synthetic bass tone paired with driving percussion and some of the catchiest songwriting on the record. While the band doesn’t shy away from complex arrangements and dizzying rhythms, these elements serve the song rather than overshadow it, creating an engaging listening experience.
The Pitfalls of Predictability
However, not all tracks maintain this momentum. Some songs meander into repetitive crescendo sections and lackluster textures. Despite interesting meter changes and dynamics, the album often feels predictably formulaic, particularly in its latter half. Tracks like “Albatross” and “Albert Road” illustrate this issue. The opener, “Albatross,” is laden with the expected post-rock flourishes—piano, contrapuntal melodies, and atmospheric buildups—but it lacks the emotional grit that could elevate these moments. Conversely, “Albert Road” attempts to encapsulate the themes of the “in-between” and prejudice but ultimately feels stagnant and directionless.
Experimentation and Missed Opportunities
One of the more intriguing aspects of the album is when English Teacher ventures into synth-heavy territory, as heard in “Sideboob.” This track evokes a European coldwave vibe, reminiscent of atmospheric Joy Division. Yet, even in this departure from their typical sound, the unique timbre feels underutilized, overshadowed by mediocre songwriting that tends to drone on rather than captivate.
Stripped-Back Brilliance
In contrast, “Mastermind Specialism” strips away the pretense and delivers a beautifully poignant experience. With Nicholas Eden’s brilliant pitch-bending on the bass, the track showcases that English Teacher doesn’t need elaborate strings, horn swells, or synth experimentation to create impactful music. Instead, it highlights the importance of focus and clarity in their songwriting.
A Mixed Bag for Listeners
For listeners, “This Could Be Texas” offers a little something for everyone, whether it’s the angular guitar freakouts, progressive structures, or orchestral finishes. However, the album struggles to form a cohesive and engaging whole, leaving many of its promising ideas feeling underdeveloped and wasted.
Recognition Beyond London
Despite my mixed feelings about the album, I wholeheartedly congratulate English Teacher on their Mercury Prize win. It’s refreshing to see such recognition for British artists outside of London, and it speaks to the vibrant music scene flourishing in places like Leeds. While I personally found the album lacking in excitement, it’s clear that English Teacher has made a significant impact, and their journey is one to watch in the coming years.