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There's something about music that comes from the U.K. I'm not sure
if it's in the accent, the recording style, or if it's because it
manifests in a completely different musical environment. Whatever
it is, it manages to find itself in my library.
The most recent U.K. addition was from the band Elbow. Having
fallen in love with their last album, The Seldom Seen Kid,
there were high hopes for the newest release Build A Rocket Boys!
While not exactly on the same track as the last record, the newbie
still had some definite strengths.
"The Birds" kicks off the album with a simplistic, yet
Chicago-esque chord progression and a sound like that of a
maraca. When the vocals come in, they're so somber and low that it
almost hurts the song. The listener has to put forth some effort to
make it through each verse. However, after a moment or two there's
a solo break out with some electric keys popping around in a 1980s'
dance tempo. This sequence of notes hangs around for the rest of the
song and acts as the catalyst to keep the entire thing alive. One
of the funnest songs on the album is easily "With Love".
Light and melodic notes flow across those familiar white keys, while
the vocals are taken up several octaves higher than the aforementioned
song. An occasional choir harmony sneaks up from the back to make
sure you're paying attention. And a set of notes gets into a descending
pattern that, while basic, has enough energy that you may find yourself
looking forward to that part of the song.
"Neat Little Rows" is a song that sets itself apart from
the rest of the album; angry bass riffs are strong throughout and
set the tone to serious. The chorus shows that Elbow has figured out
yet another way to incorporate those descending piano keys into another
song. This time they're unpolished and much more forceful. For a few
moments one does get a taste of the dramatics, as soft vocals whisper
out over a background of several added effects, as well as a bit of
percussion. All of which seem to gradually gain in intensity until
eventually the piano comes back to center stage.
A good percentage of the new album actually consists of the more
soft rock, Jeff Buckley-kind of music. Like "Jesus Is
A Rochdale Girl"; its filled with a beautiful mix of acoustic
guitar and warm electric keyboard tones. A top lays lyrics so delicate
you don't care what the story they're telling is about, you just want
to listen.
The new album is distinctly different from its predecessor, however
they're both done well in their own way. The Seldom Seen Kid
moved each listener in either a motivational way, or a booty shaking
way. Build A Rocket Boys! brings each fan back to a simpler
time where rock knows how to live with a little bit of pop.
-Rachel Fredrickson
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