James Arden checks out the garage rockers latest album.
The Christian rock band from Brighton bring religion to the masses.
Recipe for modern R'n'B album: liberal helpings of guest rappers and an overdose of sexual euphemisms.
After two previous albums, it is fair to say a sense of maturity is established in Manchester Orchestra's third album. The effective instrumental collaboration, poetic lyrics and emotional composition contribute to this masterwork. Despite a lack of recognition that this band surely deserves, the sheer talent that shines through the album cannot be obscured.
The opening track in the album, "Deer", remains the starting point of the story that guitarist, Andy Hull lyrically portrays. The mellow vocals, delicate chords and light strumming contribute to a successful whispering effect. In conjunction with such melancholy lyrics as "I sit home and drink alone", the opening track portrays a sense of apprehension and unease. 'Pensacola' gives off folky vibes with the captivating guitar pattern slightly reminiscent of The Strokes edgy rhythms.
Progressing through Hull's 'story', "April Fool" uses big instrumentation and powerful harmonies which create a rock and roll like atmosphere. A sense of anger is exposed through the heavy vocal line which coincides with the intense sound that Manchester Orchestra is usually associated with. "Virgin" sounds similar to a rock opera with the casual guitar licks, sincere vocal line and heavy guitar and drum accompaniment.
"Simple Math" lyrically describes the aspects of an affair with recurring references to lust and passion. "I want to rip your lips off in my mouth" is one of the more forward. The striking guitar chords that interrupt the melodic line are set against intimate, emotional strings. As the penultimate track on the album, "Apprehension" begins to draw the 'story' to an end, the lyrical melody combined with keyboard and percussive effects add an extra dimension to the song.
The careful arrangement of each individual song unifies the album. It is not merely a collection of songs but a lifetime of emotions and experiences. In short, it is good and honest music. After three albums, it is hard to define the future of Manchester Orchestra; hopefully they will soon be credited with the full attention they deserve.
Like this? Try: 'Brand New', 'City and Colour' and 'Frank Turner'.
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