By Rebecca Clark
Scottish rock trio Biffy Clyro return with their new album Futique, set to be released on September 19th. Biffy Clyro has such a unique energy, and it’s fitting they created a new word for this album: Futique. The album blends ‘future’ and ‘antique,’ which lead vocalist Simon Neil described as capturing moments, ideas, or connections that span time. The album reflects on love, the need for it, and the fleeting, bittersweet moments that shape our connections. Musically, it balances raw guitar riffs reminiscent of their earlier work with immersive, reflective passages, each track a Futique moment in its own right.
The journey begins with “A Little Love”, a gentle but resolute opener that frames the record’s exploration of connection and healing. It’s a meditation on heartbreak and longing, but also on the hope that rises through support, shares the same spirit of the Beatles’ “A Little Help From My Friends,” yet grounded firmly in Biffy’s raw honesty.
As the album unfolds, “Hunting Season” shifts the tone toward sharper edges. Where the opener leaned into warmth, this track brings confrontation, critiquing judgment and scrutiny, perhaps even nodding to cancel culture. It’s Futique’s first real bite, pairing dark commentary with a reflective undercurrent about human flaws and pride.
That unease makes way for the expansive “Shot One.” With its mesmerizing synths and grunge-inspired guitar solo, it’s both a wake-up call and a catharsis: “You only get one shot / And that is your experience / You only get one shot / And that’s what makes it serious.” The song urges us to let go of pain and embrace love, even knowing it can shatter us: “To make something beautiful / To believe in, to believe / You have to lose all control / So love is all that matters / But it also shatters.” It’s a quintessential Futique moment, raw, urgent, and unflinching.
“Goodbye” follows with one of the most heart-wrenching moments on the album. Where “True Believer” wrestles with faith, flaws, and connection, “Goodbye” faces the heartbreak of knowing love isn’t enough. It’s melodic yet devastating, a portrait of self-betrayal and toxic love unraveling. Having the courage it takes to say goodbye, even when it hurts.:
“I’ll fall on my knees, I’ll fall on my sword / No one will ever love you like I did before.” The resignation is quiet but resolute: “Goodbye, my love / It was too much but never enough / Goodbye, my lover / Why did we even bother?” The shift here feels like a turning point, letting go in order to move forward.
In its wake, “Friendshipping” bursts through with punk energy. After the heartbreak of “Goodbye,” it’s almost defiant, exploring the trust and vulnerability that friendships demand while acknowledging how time can pull people apart. It injects vitality into the record’s center, a reminder that love isn’t only romantic.
The album’s final stretch brings deeper introspection. “Dearest Amygdala” dances between ambition and vulnerability, its upbeat retro sound contrasting with lyrics that dig into emotion and self-improvement. It’s a balancing act of energy and thought, setting the stage for the closing chapter.
Ending the album with “Two People in Love.” Stripped back with delicate piano, it draws the record to an intimate conclusion. The song acknowledges the challenges of love while emphasizing resilience, connection, and commitment. It doesn’t offer easy answers, but it leaves the listener with a quiet clarity.
Biffy Clyro has never shied away from honesty, and their lyrics are always authentic and vulnerable. With Futique, they invite listeners even deeper into their world, blending reflection with emotional openness. The album has a distinctly “antique” Biffy Clyro sound, but it also pushes forward, encouraging listeners to carry meaningful moments with them while continuing to move ahead. Futique reminds us that while it’s important to reflect on the past, dwelling there can hold you back, embrace the memories that matter, and let them guide your next steps.
Get your copy and stream Futique HERE
