By: Jesse Striewski
For whatever reason, I somewhat dragged my feet when it came to giving the new Marilyn Manson album/follow-up to 2024’s One Assassination Under God – Chapter 1 a try. It could’ve had something to do with the initial single, “Exit Wound,” not really striking a chord with me. But as with any good ugly duckling, there’s usually more than what’s on the surface.
As soon as I sat down and really gave this latest effort my full attention though, I suddenly “got it.” Eerie album opener “Unalive” instantly brought me back to the days of listening to earlier Manson albums in my youth, as did the likes of “Don’t Answer the Door,” “You Can’t Die Young,” and “All The Vilest Things” (my personal favorite).
I do kind of miss Marilyn Manson “The Band,” as everything sort of feels like a solo album now rather than a group effort. Longtime collaborator Tyler Bates and drummer Gil Sharone are the only other actual musicians listed here in the credits, which is somewhat disappointing to see, knowing that Tim Skold is now back in the band now as well and hoping for more of an actual “reunion.” (Though I suppose it is possible he re-joined after the album’s completion.)
I can’t say I don’t “get it” though; Manson has been dragged through the mud, and I’m sure his guard is fully up at all times these days (hence the name of these last two albums, which actually allude to character assassination, not the actual thing). At least we’re still getting a Manson somewhat on top of his game though.
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
