This is the age of post-factual lies, which is reflected in MESH's album title "The Truth Doesn't Matter" and a dark undertone that occasionally seeps into their new songs. What remains entirely true is the fact that the UK duo has a nearly uncanny knack for writing electronic hits that are as elegant as they are captivating. "The Truth Doesn't Matter" bursts out like a sparkling firework while subtly referencing three decades of electronic music spanning from GIORGIO MORODER, YAZOO, and DEPECHE MODE via GARBAGE and MASSIVE ATTACK to more contemporary artists. At the same time, MESH always maintain their easily recognizable and unique musical identity as well as the trademark sounds that they have cultivated since their beginnings in the early nineties.
MESH had been conceived in 1991, when lead singer and guitarist Mark Hockings and keyboard player and vocalist Richard Silverthorn found friendship and common sonic ground, leading to the formation of the band. This musical partnership has ever since defined MESH's enduring legacy. The duo was soon joined by Neil Taylor on keyboards, who had already been playing in another band with Silverthorn. MESH's creative synergy emerged from a complementary distribution of roles: Richard Silverthorn composed the music, while Mark Hockings penned evocative and profound lyrics, infusing depth and emotion into their soundscapes.
That brings me to my first MESH concert in Ghent (Zaal Eland). I was meshmerized (hence the word play), started following them, lost a bit contact but hooked on them again a few years ago. Are they still vivid, actual, still sharp as ever? Check it out underneath …
The Truth Doesn’t Matter is a strong song that might make its way onto dance floors around the world. The lyrics are sharp and highly relevant. The sound feels more modern and evolved, yet longtime MESH fans will still recognize a signature MESH track here. It’s safe to say many fans will love it. With I Lost a Friend Today, they show they can also deliver slower songs that still resonate deeply. It’s the kind of song we all relate to at times (and, if I may speak for myself, perhaps a bit more as we get older).
Trying to Save You is a solid uptempo track with a more positive lyrical tone, and it could easily become a fan favorite. With Bury Me Again, they lean toward a Depeche Mode–influenced sound (just listen to the vocals and overall atmosphere). Toward the end, we also hear the excellent vocals of Mari Kattman. Kill Us with Silence is another highlight, carrying a strong emotional edge. This World is built on emotion, pathos, and a touch of Depeche Mode and Nine Inch Nails. Another standout is the more guitar-driven track Exile.
They close on a positive note with Be Kind. It’s not quite what we’re used to from them, and that makes it a refreshing way to end the album.
There are clear highlights, alongside a few less memorable moments (though not every track I didn’t mention is a skip). It’s great to see them back on form and still relevant in 2026. Some songs truly stand out, offering hope amid the darkness. The lyrics remain sharp, and while the overall tone is intense, there are glimpses of optimism—a light at the end of the tunnel. I enjoyed it and will continue to revisit many of these tracks. I might even catch them live in the near future.
Line-up
Mark Hockings – vocals, synthesisers, guitar
Richard Silverthorn – synthesisers, guitar, backing vocals
Vaughn George – live keyboards
Sean Suleman – live drums
Live
01 MAY 2026 Bristol (UK) Trinity
02 MAY 2026 London (UK) 229 Club
03 MAY 2026 Sheffield (UK Corporation
14 MAY 2026 Malmö (SE) Plan B
15 MAY 2026 Göteborg (SE) Musikens Hus
16 MAY 2026 København (DK) Viften
30 AUG 2026 Taunton (UK) Vivary Park Open Air, Electric Summer +Howard Jones
11 NOV 2026 Liberec (CZ) Dům kultury
