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MJ Lenderman’s new album Manning Fireworks has been on repeat in my office this past weekend. It dropped on Friday, September 6th, and features a raw alt-country sound that feels both fresh and nostalgic. I first heard of this dude in 2019 when he played at the Royal American with Daddy’s Beemer, and he has blown up since then. Part of this is because the band, Wednesday, in which he plays guitar, is also blowing up, but most of it is because his songwriting is rad and the hipsters have caught on.

Upon first impression, the record begs a comparison to Uncle Tupelo, the fathers of the alt-country genre and the predecessor to indie rock legends, Wilco. The difference here is that Manning Fireworks has a warmer, more accessible sound that also ties in elements of modern indie rock. But there is that detached vocal affect, coupled with existential observations and musings on human behavior.

I could name songs to check out, but I think the record deserves the full front-to-back listen. Plus, Lenderman did the choosing for you by releasing three excellent singles leading up to the album release: “Joker Lips,” “Rudolph,” and “She’s Leaving You” (featuring who is presumed to be Karly from Wednesday).

Okay, I’ll name one more: “Wristwatch” is my favorite song on the album right now, because of the changing use of the wristwatch imagery in the refrain. It’s just so well-written, and it invites reflection.

There are many different styles explored, but overall the record has a really cozy, open sound. There’s a comfortable amount of space on every song, and nothing feels rushed. It’s patient, thoughtful music that represents some of the best in modern indie songwriting. You’ll hear rock & roll, subtle acoustics, touches of string & brass accompaniment, a nice live swing to the drumming, and more.

The final song, “Bark At The Moon,” clocks in at 10 minutes, including a 6-minute outro that breaks down into white noise and fades to nothing. The title is a reference to playing Ozzy Osbourne’s “Bark At The Moon” late at night on Guitar Hero, as explained by the lyrics. Not only that, but it also contains a lyrical allusion to Warren Zevon’s “Werewolves Of London.”

Manning Fireworks is another solid album from one of the most promising young names in indie rock. If you dig this, you definitely need to check out the live album from last summer, And The Wind (Live and Loose!), plus Boat Songs from 2022. Peace!

MJ Lenderman – Manning Fireworks

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Hey thanks for posting this. I listened to this whole album today. First time to the band. It’s a great album. I can tell they put a lotta love into it. Every song has it’s own distinct personality, and the pacing is spot on. I really like the tone of the vocals. It sounds excellent on a production level, too. There’s just the right amount of layering and little instrumental bits to keep it interesting and invite mulitple listens, but it retains a simple feeling at its core. I’ll be coming back to it for sure.

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“Kahlua Shooter / DUI Scooter” might just be the best couplet o’ 2024. Mark Twang.

Top 10 MJ Lenderman-isms on Manning Fireworks