Album review by Luke Petty
The enigmatic Marilyn Manson has returned from the shadows. After captivating audiences on his summer comeback tour and unveiling a trio of haunting singles, the shock rocker has unleashed his latest opus, One Assassination Under God – Chapter 1. Teaming up once again with the legendary Tyler Bates and Gil Sharone, and joined by the fearsome duo of Reba Meyers and Piggy D., Manson delivers a sonic onslaught that will leave you begging for more.
The brooding title track, ‘One Assassination Under God’ finds Manson grappling with the bitter reality of his suffering. As his pain is exposed to the world, he remains isolated, a tragic figure in a grotesque entertainment spectacle.
In ‘No Funeral Without Applause’, Manson channels his inner romantic, pouring out his heart to his partner. But don’t be fooled, this isn’t your typical love song. The track also takes aim at the mindless masses, exposing their ignorance and gullibility.
‘Nod if You Understand’ is a chaotic and violent masterpiece, showcasing Manson’s unbridled rage. Defying expectations of remorse, he embraces his dark side, declaring, “I won’t repent / this is what I was sent here for.” This unfiltered outpouring of anger is both shocking and exhilarating.Definitely the most aggressive track he has delivered in some time and we are all for it.
‘As Sick as the Secrets Within’ is a dark and twisted masterpiece, showcasing Manson’s raw talent and unflinching honesty. The chilling whisper, “It’s not so evil as much as it’s hungry,” is a perfect introduction to this haunting exploration of addiction and despair. This is Manson at his best, delivering a powerful and emotional performance that will leave you breathless. The song’s production is a masterful blend of old and new, drawing inspiration from his classic albums Mechanical Animals, Holy Wood, and The Golden Age of Grotesque. It’s a dark, twisted, and utterly brilliant piece of work.
Next up is a weird and wonderful track ‘Sacreligious’ that embraces the dark side of religion. Manson’s fascination with the duality of Christ and the Devil is on full display in this quirky and catchy song. The strong instrumental and clever lyrics are a highlight, although the overproduced vocals can be a bit much. Still, the infectious chorus and solid vocal performance make it a fun and memorable listen.
One Assassination Under God – Chapter 1 is a triumphant return for Marilyn Manson. While his previous album was a masterpiece in its own right, this new record is a dream come true for longtime fans. It’s a masterful blend of classic Manson elements, a nostalgic journey through his illustrious career. Each track grabbing you and making you feel apart of the story being told. ‘Death is not a costume’, ‘Meet me in purgatory’ and ‘raise the red flag’ really show case this.
The album concludes with the profoundly moving ‘Sacrifice of the Mass’. This haunting track explores themes of mortality and the fragility of life, eliciting a raw and emotional response. Manson’s vulnerable vocals, paired with the atmospheric instrumental, create a powerful and poignant listening experience. While the song’s melancholic tone may not be immediately appealing to all listeners, its deliberate pacing and impactful build-up make it a fitting conclusion to the album.
How does One Assassination Under God – Chapter 1 compare to Manson’s earlier work? While time will ultimately be the judge, I believe it stands among his finest albums. Alongside Holy Wood and The Pale Emperor, it’s a top contender for my favorites. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a casual listener, this album offers something for everyone. Its thoughtful composition and intriguing themes invite deep exploration. The title “Chapter 1” hints at a larger story, promising exciting future installments. I eagerly await Chapter 2, curious to see if it delves deeper into themes of death or takes a more unexpected turn.
