Album Review: Antony Szmierek - Service Station At The End Of The Universe
Antony Szmierek’s debut album Service Station At The End Of The Universe feels like a breath of fresh air in 2025’s music landscape. The Manchester-based artist has truly hit his stride, crafting a soundscape that balances high energy with space for his poetic words to take centre stage. This is not a rehash of past musical styles but a bold, original voice that captures the spirit of today with clarity and vitality.
From the very first track, the album bursts with tech-edged synths and immediacy, drawing listeners into Szmierek’s world. His blend of rave, indie, and spoken word, combined with sharp, vivid storytelling, creates a unique experience that feels both personal and universal. The lyrics move seamlessly from local references, like the enigmatic Stockport pyramid, to broader themes about life, connection, and the transcendence found in rave culture.
While the album dips slightly in the middle with tracks like “Yoga Teacher” and “Crumb,” which don’t quite match the exceptional energy of the opening, this is only a brief stumble. The record concludes with a beautifully melancholy crescendo that leaves a lasting impression. The concept behind the album is expertly delivered - it serves as a framework rather than a crutch. This allows Szmierek to paint a vivid, often humorous, and musically accomplished vision of the world as he sees it.
Musically, the album is rich and varied. “Rafters” perfectly captures the fluttering, exposed truths of the rave experience, while “Big Light” combines matters of the heart with a soulful gospel backing. The after-hours electronica vibe of “Angie’s Wedding” shows Szmierek’s versatility and understanding of British electronic music traditions.
One of the most compelling aspects of Service Station At The End Of The Universe is its warmth and immediacy. The “service station” motif acts as a grounding symbol amid the transient chaos of life and rave culture, representing a constant place of respite. Szmierek’s delivery - rhythmic spoken word backed by dancefloor-ready production - makes this a deeply engaging listen that feels both distinctly British and universally relatable.
In a musical era often marked by nostalgia, Antony Szmierek offers something fresh and vital - a voice for 2025 that is both honest and inviting. Service Station At The End Of The Universe is not just an album but a statement: a witty, heartfelt, and musically rich journey through place, identity, and human connection.