Following the sad and untimely passing of the iconic drummer Taylor Hawkins last year, we all thought a Foo Fighters return would be in years to come or even not at all. However, 13 months on, Dave Grohl and co. have shown courage, resilience and motivation to keep going and release their 11th studio album But Here We Are.
The title of the album already illustrates the mood and messages in this record – that Taylor has gone and we are heartbroken but Foo Fighters goes on no matter what.
The opening track and first single Rescued I first heard in April and immediately loved it and have been playing it over and over again ever since. It is the most incredible comeback single and is very emotional and poignant for the situation the band were in.
The opening chords and lyrics bring tingles to my spine and tears to my eyes, picturing Taylor throughout, with the song describing his sudden death: “It came at a flash. It came out of nowhere. It happened so fast and then it was over.”
What is also great is the quality of music is still incredible with epic heavy guitar riffs, rhythmic bass lines and thumping drum beats.
The same can be said for the second track and single Under You, which appears to highlight the grieving process the band went through. This is shown in the chorus like they are singing to Taylor that they’ll never get over his loss.
I feel the rest of the album follows the same theme. It is almost like a musical eulogy or obituary, honouring Taylor’s life.
I think Hearing Voices is the hope of hearing Taylor’s voice again. I also love the rare use of piano at the end of the track.
The song But Here We Are gives a sense of the anger, frustration, hurt and helplessness they feel but also shows their determination to keep going. This feeling continues in The Glass, Nothing At All, Show Me How (ft beautiful support vocals from Violet Grohl) and Beyond Me.
The penultimate track The Teacher is a lengthy song with many musical layers and a message that life comes with lessons and one is we have to say goodbye eventually.
The final track Rest is simply saying it is now time for Taylor to rest in peace and the band will carry on in his honour.
Overall, the album But We Are Here is a very powerful, emotional and bittersweet record, pulling together all the thoughts and feelings the band, family and fans all have been carrying throughout this dark time.
I admit the album is a grower and took me a few listens to understand and appreciate the work but I’m very proud of what they have created considering the situation.
Plus, I think this album will be a great source of therapy for anyone grieving or going through a bereavement.
As I pre-ordered this album, I’m looking forward to getting access to their pre-sale UK tour tickets – but of course, the live shows will never be the same without the late great Taylor Hawkins.
But We Are Here by Foo Fighters is available to buy, download and stream NOW!
Also, check out my previous album review of Medicine at Midnight and my review of Foo Fighters’ live performance at the London Stadium in 2018.
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