Album Review: Elbow - The Seldom Seen Kid

The opening track “Starlings” off of Elbow’s most recent LP perfectly foreshadows the greatness to ensue on one of 2008’s best releases so far. The first 15 seconds begin with a “Day in the Life” accumulation of noise that builds until abruptly halting, only to make way for a gentle, lulling harmony that draws you in to an unknown and unpredictable sonic territory. The song continues to cycle through a bewildering series of building, exploding with horns, and careening strings.

The sound of Manchester’s Elbow can be loosely compared to the dream rock of bands like Doves or Travis, even at times Sigur Ros. But limiting them to just these contemporaries wouldn’t do them justice. One of the main contributors to their unique sound is Guy Garvey, who leads the band with his majestic, Peter Gabriel-esque vocals. His voice leads the way throughout the wondrously diverse soundscapes as if a guiding light shining a path for us to follow. The variety of musical territory explored is breathtaking, ranging from delicately sweeping arrangements (“Mirrorball”) to more crunchy, haunting experiences (“Grounds For Divorce”).

The album is rare in its faultless execution from beginning to end, with a constant draw for the listener as if exploring a series of dreams and not wanting to wake up. Highlights include the cathartic “The Loneliness of a Tower Crane Driver” and the beautiful, almost heavenly “Weather To Fly”. Despite the bands poor name choice, Garvey and his party make no missteps on their epic fourth LP.

Key Tracks:

The Bones of You

The Loneliness of a Tower Crane Driver

One Day Like This

Final Verdict: 9.3