After two successful solo albums and more than a decade co-fronting the iconic indie band The Last Shadow Puppets with his close friend Alex Turner, Miles Kane is back with his most impactful solo album yet. His latest release, Coup De Grace, blends raw emotion, punk energy, and a nod to 70s glam rock, marking a fresh chapter in Kane’s career.
Inspired by the heartbreak of a recent breakup, Kane admits he’s “doing an Adele” with this emotionally charged album. However, with his strong MOD and old-school punk influences, Coup De Grace avoids the typical self-pity of post-breakup records. Instead, the album channels power and resilience, true to its wrestling move-inspired title. Kane leans into his punk roots, pulling from 70s legends like The Damned, but skips the overwrought screaming and whining, delivering a clean, powerful sound that leaves an impact without overwhelming the listener.
Coup De Grace is made up of 10 fast-paced tracks that transition effortlessly from one to the next. Before you know it, the album is over, leaving you eager for more. Each song stands strong as a potential single, with tracks like “Cry On My Guitar,” “Loaded,” and the title track offering unique vibes and deeper lyrics than Kane’s previous work. These songs, in particular, highlight Lana Del Rey and Jamie T’s influence, with more lyric-driven verses and a faster pace than his typical indie-punk style.
While Coup De Grace can be placed in the current indie rock scene, there’s a clear throwback to the sounds of T-Rex and David Bowie, especially in “Cry On My Guitar” and “Cold Light Of Day.” Kane’s vocal delivery recalls the iconic twang of Marc Bolan, evoking hits like “Telegram Sam” and “Children Of The Revolution.” This 70s glam influence, combined with indie-punk, creates an album filled with groove rather than sorrow.
In terms of both musical craftsmanship and storytelling, Coup De Grace might just be Kane’s best work yet. It strikes a perfect balance between various genres without feeling like a mishmash of styles. The album’s distinct sound sets it apart from the flood of indie-punk releases, reminding listeners that while Alex Turner may often steal the spotlight, Miles Kane is right there with him, a talent not to be underestimated. This sharply dressed musician is ready to take centre stage, and Coup De Grace is made to be blasted live, offering fans a chance to dance their socks off.
