Stereophonics – Make ’em Laugh, Make ’em Cry, Make ’em Wait
Stereophonics are one of the UK’s most beloved rock groups – with eight number one albums and millions of devoted fans, Kelly Jones (vocals, guitar), Richard Jones (bass), Adam Zindani (guitar) and Jamie Morrison (drums) have maintained global success for over 30 years. They have certainly come a long way since the immense success of the 2003 hit Maybe Tomorrow or the 2005 single Dakota, but their latest record, Make ‘em Laugh, Make ‘em Cry, Make ‘em Wait, blends each phase of their extensive catalogue into one nostalgic, yet refreshingly modern collection.
Although each song explores a different facet of rock, each moment has the quintessential Stereophonics sound throughout. There’s Always Gonna Be Something and Seems Like You Don’t Know Me could fit excellently within one of their 2000s albums, and the band’s confidence in embracing their roots is admirable. Jones’s raw, gravelly vocals are as commanding as ever, especially in Eyes Too Big For My Belly, which focuses on classic rock elements with a hint of cinematic strings. The record takes the listener on a dynamic journey, showcasing exactly what has made Stereophonics shine over the decades. Colours of October slows things down with stretched-out strings and concentration on stripped back percussive elements, making for one of the album’s most emotionally resonant moments. Mary Is a Sinner takes a turn towards folk reminiscent of Jackson Browne or Bob Dylan, which is a somewhat stylistic detour for the band, but is executed with warmth and sincerity. Backroom Boys follows and expands upon this mood by adding a modern, uplifting twist into the mix.
Stereophonics has never been known for long-winded albums – with an average run-time of less than an hour, they have long favoured concise songwriting. Although Make ‘em Laugh, Make ‘em Cry, Make ‘em Wait is the quartet’s shortest project to date, its brevity is intentional. The album centres around a theme of genuine optimism, whether it be the theatrical opening track Make It On Your Own or the calm simplicity of Feeling of Falling We Crave, Stereophonics are self-aware, patient and full of affection for the self and those around them.
Overall, Make ‘em Laugh, Make ‘em Cry, Make ‘em Wait is a strong 13th addition to the Stereophonics discography. Although it is not the band’s most lyrically dense effort, its blend of varying moods and styles that are anchored by an emotionally rich theme displays a band in tune with its true identity.
Taryn Crowley
Image: James D Kelly
Make ’em Laugh, Make ’em Cry, Make ’em Wait is released on 25th April 2025. For further information or to order the album, visit Stereophonics’s website here.
Watch the video for the single Make It On Your Own here:
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