Manning Fireworks is the soundtrack to a lost indie film, where punchy lyrics meets moody guitar rock. Hailing from Asheville, North Carolina, Lenderman began his rise with the unassuming release of Boat Songs. Garnering attention for its nostalgic fuzz-laden guitar riffs and lyrically comedy. It’s with Manning Fireworks that Lenderman crafts an album that blends humor, introspection, and sharp cultural critiques, showing his capabilities as an artist.

Lenderman’s journey to this point is as important to the album as the music itself. After spending his early twenties balancing his job with self-booked tours and stints with the band Wednesday, the pandemic gave him the time to focus fully on his music. This period of introspection and creative freedom led to the release of Ghost of Your Guitar Solo and the critically acclaimed Boat Songs, setting the stage for Manning Fireworks.

At the heart of Manning Fireworks Lenderman merges a smorgasbord of guitar styles with punchy lyrics. Lenderman’s lyrics are sharp and evocative, as seen in the opening title track. Here, he critiques performative religion within the vivid imagery of a bird caught in a windstorm. Between his poetic song structure and folky instrumentation, it’s hard not to draw comparisons to Bob Dylan or Neil Young.

Continuing the Bob Dylan inspiration is the song “Rudolph.” Where Lenderman cleverly juxtaposes innocence with the stark reality of human selfishness, asking, “How many roads must a man walk down ’til he learns he’s just a jerk?” Borrowing from Dylan’s famed track, “Blowin’ In the Wind.”

The album isn’t without its moments of humor, though. Tracks like “Joker Lips” reveal Lenderman’s signature wit. Which acts as a mask for while he openly grapples with feelings of exclusion. This mix of light and dark is a defining feature, where even the most melancholic themes are delivered with a touch of humor. As if he’s too scared to get too comfortable with us.

Musically, Manning Fireworks captures the restless spirit of Lenderman’s journey. The album’s soundscape is as varied as it is cohesive, blending Southern rock influences with raw, emotive guitar solos. “Wristwatch,” with its reflection on loneliness, is a standout track, while “She’s Leaving You” channels R.E.M.-inspired melodies to tell a story of familial disappointment. Throughout the album, Lenderman’s voice wavers between confidence and vulnerability, mirroring the emotional depth of his lyrics.

The personal nature of this album is perhaps best exemplified by “Bark at the Moon,” where Lenderman reflects on his childhood and his early love for music. The track, which starts as a nostalgic ode to playing Guitar Hero, transforms into a minutes-long grungy, noise rock outro. It’s a fitting conclusion to an album that feels deeply personal, universally relatable, and tastefully raw.

Manning Fireworks resonates with its blend of lyrical depth, varied musical styles, and introspective themes. It’s an album full of punchy lyrics that stay with you long after the final note has been played. It’s not just a collection of songs, but as a cohesive, cinematic experience for indie music lovers. It’s an album that showcases Lenderman’s growth as an artist and his ability to navigate the complexities of both life and music with wit and sincerity.

Pre-order Manning Fireworks by MJ Lenderman HERE