Post by Sean on Mar 5, 2011 19:57:59 GMT
Out Monday March 7th
4.5/5
With 2011 being touted as the return of the guitars, and only two major albums released so far with White Lies' Ritual, and Liam Gallagher's band Beady Eye, a band formerly on the London 'folk' scene with Mumford & Sons and Laura Marling, ditch guitars for synths. The third album by the band is a startingly euphoric affair, with gospel vocals provided by a choir famous for working with the Jackson 5, whilst reflecting its' place of recording in the sunshine of L.A. Their previous, critically acclaimed album, focused on the break up of lead singer Charlie Fink's failed relationship with Laura Marling, and many songs on here seem to be reflective of his progression, with themes of escapism. His songwriting has progressed to a storytelling talent akin to the likes of Bruce Springsteen, and he shows himself to be one of the most talented songwriters of his generation. It's a grand affair, started off by three reflective, uplifting songs in 'Life Is Life', 'Tonight's The Kind Of Night', and recent single L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N.. All are buzzing with the kind of chiming synths and simple piano's that could break them into the mainstream charts, whilst being genuinely stunning songs. There's a reflective view of a protagonist's life on 'Wild Thing', with yet more examples of the lyrical talent Fink has acquired. The final songs on the album develop on themes of regret, looking back on fond memories from childhood, and a belief in "simple three chord Rock n Roll". After the near perfection of their last album, Noah & the Whale have somehow managed to create something timeless, to be played for years to come, something that will surely be on the lips of the nation come the end of the year.
4.5/5
With 2011 being touted as the return of the guitars, and only two major albums released so far with White Lies' Ritual, and Liam Gallagher's band Beady Eye, a band formerly on the London 'folk' scene with Mumford & Sons and Laura Marling, ditch guitars for synths. The third album by the band is a startingly euphoric affair, with gospel vocals provided by a choir famous for working with the Jackson 5, whilst reflecting its' place of recording in the sunshine of L.A. Their previous, critically acclaimed album, focused on the break up of lead singer Charlie Fink's failed relationship with Laura Marling, and many songs on here seem to be reflective of his progression, with themes of escapism. His songwriting has progressed to a storytelling talent akin to the likes of Bruce Springsteen, and he shows himself to be one of the most talented songwriters of his generation. It's a grand affair, started off by three reflective, uplifting songs in 'Life Is Life', 'Tonight's The Kind Of Night', and recent single L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N.. All are buzzing with the kind of chiming synths and simple piano's that could break them into the mainstream charts, whilst being genuinely stunning songs. There's a reflective view of a protagonist's life on 'Wild Thing', with yet more examples of the lyrical talent Fink has acquired. The final songs on the album develop on themes of regret, looking back on fond memories from childhood, and a belief in "simple three chord Rock n Roll". After the near perfection of their last album, Noah & the Whale have somehow managed to create something timeless, to be played for years to come, something that will surely be on the lips of the nation come the end of the year.
