Not Now Norman – Release 2nd Album

Album – Go Hard or Go Home

Release date – 29^th November 24

Review by Linda McDermott

Not Now Norman release that dreaded second album, the one that every band worries about because they don’t think it will live up to the creativity and inspiration of their debut album. Well, I can tell you that Not Now Norman have nothing to worry about on that score. This album is Brilliant! It has everything from the initial short instrumental that leads you on a journey of raw emotion, angst, and resilience, to songs with lyrics that will resonate with most people who have encountered the subjects on some level. In their own words it is a journey “from pain to power to music,” and once you’ve listened to the album you will totally understand their statement.

This rock album is a bold, multifaceted exploration of personal and societal struggles, blending raw emotion with exceptional musical talent. Taylor-Grace’s powerful voice conveys vulnerability and strength in equal measure, creating a connection to the themes of the tracks. Tackling a wide range of topics, the album addresses the cracks in a failing education system, (Feral), coping with and surviving PTSD, (Who I Am) political corruption, (King of a Wasted Land) and the toxic culture of online trolls in the song Why Don’t You Like Me? Each song feels deeply rooted in the singer’s personal experiences, transforming pain and adversity into anthems of resilience and self-empowerment.

On the same day Not Now Norman are releasing the track ‘Family Photo,’ which is on the album. The song is a poignant exploration of heartbreak and resilience, recounting Taylor-Grace’s journey of being disowned by a family member at birth. Its raw lyrics unravel the deep emotions caused by rejection, as the melody ebbs and flows. Through the lyrics she exposes the painful truth that people are not what they seem to the outside world.

The band’s musical abilities are equally compelling, offering a great backdrop that elevates the emotional weight of the lyrics. From haunting ballads like ‘Mama’ to explosive rock tracks, such as ‘Why Don’t You Like Me?’ the arrangements underscore the intensity of the subject matter while maintaining a cohesive sound.

Although the album has an angst feel about a lot of the tracks, it doesn’t linger solely in heavy themes, with one track offering a lighthearted song, showcasing the band’s playful side. ‘Green Light’ is a fun track about corny lyrics about fast cars and good-looking women, proving they don’t take themselves too seriously and giving the album a well-rounded appeal. The result is a collection of songs that inspire and resonate, striking a balance between catharsis and celebration.

Whether confronting societies flaws or telling of personal growth, this album leaves a lasting impression, encouraging listeners to find strength in vulnerability and hope in adversity. I can thoroughly recommend this album for your collection

The band will be having an album launch party at Trillians in Newcastle on Thursday 5^th of December, with free entry it would be rude not to go and check out Not Now Norman and hearing this brilliant album live.

Not Now Norman are:

Taylor-Grace – Vocals

Zander Brown – Guitar and Backing Vocals

Album Tracks

1 Norminius Sanctus

2 Go Hard or Go Home

3 Feral

4 Who I Am

5 Family Photo

6 Mama

7 Midnight Sun

8 Mister Know It All

9 King of a Wasted Land

10 Bad Liar

11 Why Don’t You Like Me?

12 Green Light

13 Toxic (bonus track)

Website: https://www.notnownorman.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NotNowNorman/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/now_norman?lang=en

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notnownorman/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUenB53gC2TFf6tc04k_WwA

Bandcamp

https://notnownormanmusic.bandcamp.com/album/its-not-this-one-2