The anticipation leading up to the release of this album, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Eisa Davis’ concept album Warriors, was palpable. From the moment that hints and rumours were crossing the social media spaces, to when Lin officially announced that he was working on this album, I was so ready for new Lin work.
I knew nothing about the film except that Lin was obsessed with it. But, I was excited nonetheless. I finally got to be a part of the journey to waiting for new Lin music that was purely from his genius (and Eisa’s) and not something that was attached to someone else’s property (read Disney).
To prepare myself, I dove into the original novel penned by Sol Yurick and then I watched The Warriors film. The two works were quite different from each other. Though the film did hold onto the themes and heart of the novel which came first. And I am glad that I read the book to help me understand the times that the story was set in. But, the album was going to be based more on the film and so I am forever grateful that I watched the movie. It was a compelling watch, and strangely moving. Oh, and Joe Walsh’s/Eagles song In The City was the perfect end credits track, just saying.
So, I was ready. Or maybe I wasn’t. But, the 18th of October was creeping closer and with the sneak peeks that Lin and others were dropping on social media the anticipation was at a high by the time the album dropped…in Australia first! Lin even announced the Aussie release by playing the Bluey theme… haha.
Pause. Rewind.
The Warriors is a story about a small gang in New York from Coney Island, the Warriors, that join many other gangs at a gathering in the Bronx where a charismatic leader called Cyrus is attempting a peace truce of sorts, wanting to bring the gangs together in a united front. Everything goes awry when someone shoots Cyrus…and the Warriors are wrongfully and wilfully accused. Then comes a harrowing journey for the Warriors as they try to get back home to Coney Island on the trains.
The original film, the Warriors were men, Lin and Eisa in their wisdom, switched the gender to an all female crew. And that set the tone for the whole album, however keeps the original vibe of the film intact at the same time. In saying that, it does also draw out new themes as well, feminism and a real sense of hope threading throughout the whole piece of work.
Alright. Press Play. Listen.
People of New York, crews of this city, who rules this maaadness!?
From the first word, from the first note, from the first rhythm, this piece of art seizes you by the throat and does not let go. It is relentless, but at the same time there are moments that it feels like a warm hug. The musical styles range from what one would typically imagine from Lin-Manuel ie hip-hop, rap, little bit of theatrical musical style, all the way to Luther’s metal growls. It is a wild ride which I do not want to disembark, ever.
Pause. Come up for breath… still breathing? (See what I did there?)
Press play.
I could wax lyrical on every song. But instead here are my highlights from my initial play throughs.
Survive the Night/Roll call – I feel that these two cannot be separated. With the tag “Clap your hands if you’re ready to meet the Warriors!” And then the echo of the phrase “Roll call” which seamlessly transitions into the next track… the best opening track(s) I’ve ever experienced. And it is an experience. We’re not just listening to an album, we are experiencing an event, a story… and this is the entrance it deserves.
If You Can Count – Miss Lauryn Hill. That’s all that needs to be said. Oh and… well, she killed me softly with her song… that she did.
Leave the Bronx Alive – I can picture the scene from the film where they are chased down the street and need to cross to get to the station. The stakes are already high and the tension can be felt… with that repetitive refrain “leave the Bronx behind, only the strong survive…”
Going Down – Kim Dracula. Where have you been all my life?
Orphan Town – who doesn’t love UTK? And the introduction of Mercy? Buck-buck-buck-buck-buck-buck-bagawk! *chef’s kiss*
Still Breathin’ – the quiet menace of Colman’s vocals and then the power in Aneesa’s sent chills down my spine. I need more of Aneesa hands down.
Same Train Home – the sultry vocals leading into the first phrase played over that one note is so powerful and at the same time feels like a reprieve from the relentlessness of the tracks. The calm before the storm of the finale.
Repeat refrain: This whole album is a wild ride. One that I never want to disembark.
Don’t take my word for it though.
Listen to it. Experience it. Soak it in. Let it under your skin and make your own mind up. But, this feels like a once in a life time moment. Seize it. And feel it.
Warriors. They are alive.
Marly's World 