Chemical Animal

Post-punk Scottish group The Jesus and Mary Chain have recently released a two-song single. The single includes the songs “Chemical Animal” and “jamcod,” which was on a separate one-song single. “Chemical Animal” is a slow song with a more psychedelic feeling, while “jamcod” has a gritty, electronic touch and reminds me of the musical style that bands like Sonic Youth expressed, but both feel as though they are staying true to their eighties post-punk roots. According to Jim Reid, lead singer of the band, “‘Chemical Animal’ is different but related [to ‘jamcod’].”
The lyrics of “Chemical Animal” seem as though they are supposed to be telling the story of someone who drinks or takes drugs for the sole purpose of coming off as a different person- not to seem like a “Debby-downer.” It’s specifically showcased in the chorus, with the lyrics: “I fill myself with chemicals/To hide the dark sh*t I don’t show.” This song has the feeling of becoming new with the way the melody and the way Reid sings the lyrics. The song also incorporates a feeling of falling when parts in the song feel like something is dropping, Reid’s voice bringing that feeling upon the listeners. I liken it to someone wanting and trying hard not to be dependent on whatever they are dependent on- but still giving into that dependency, not only for the sake of themself but also for the people around them.
I believe the lyrics for “jamcod” are about physically breaking down, not emotionally. Being unable to do things the way they used to get done because of the way drug/alcohol dependency makes them. Saying things like: “The monkey’s organ grinder/Isn’t grinding anymore,” means to me that they don’t work anymore, that they can’t do what they are made to do or expected to do. According to Jim Reid, the song is supposed to be reminiscent of the band’s split in 1999, when he showed up on-stage intoxicated and unable to perform, causing the show to end and show attendees to be refunded. You can see what he’s talking about in the lyrics when he says, “And there has to be no show/Breaking up and then falling down/Best notify the other brother…” When Reid says “the other brother,” he’s referring to his brother, William Reid, who is also a member of the band, whom he had a falling out with during the band’s break-up.
I like both songs and I can see how they are related to one another, but I prefer “Chemical Animal” more. I prefer the post-punk gothic feel they brought into this song, compared to the 90’s alternative rock style that is present in “jamcod.” I give “Chemical Animal” a 4.5 out of 5 and “jamcod” a 3.5/5. These singles were both released to build up anticipation for the upcoming album, “Glasgow Eyes,” so be sure to check that out on March 8th, 2024.