September has seen the release of some great albums and EP’s. With more due for release in the coming weeks, here is a snapshot of the latest musical offerings out there and some hidden gems to look out for.
The XX - Coexist
Already topping the chart the XX have clearly not failed to please with their second album Coexist. I’ve had it on pre-order ever since the release of the first single ‘Angels’. It could be argued that this second album is not a huge departure in style and sound from the first. But the richness of each track crafts beautiful scenery upon which the softly muted lyrics can unfold.
With proclamations of deep love, heartbreak and a desire to rekindle lost relationships, the lyrics gently convey raw emotions and feelings. This subtlety, that the band have managed to capture so successfully here, is the secret to their success.
Favourite track/s: ‘Reunion’ and ‘Tides’
Pink – The Truth About Love
This week see’s the release of Pink’s sixth album The Truth About Love. With the recent drought in good quality pop offerings, Pink’s latest contribution is a highly anticipated event!
The album doesn’t fail to disappoint, with its powerful recipe of protest, fun and great vocals. Pink is back with a bang. Tracks such as ‘Slut Like You’ and ‘Walk of Shame’ highlight the hypocrisy women face for embracing and enjoying no-strings sex. The upbeat tracks such as ‘Where Did the Beat Go?’ and ‘True Love’ feat. Lilly Rose Cooper (Allen) are sure to be hits. The first single, ‘Blow Me (One Last Kiss)’, is an example of the ‘identifiable to all’ lyrics that Pink seems to get right every time!
Favourite track/s: ‘Truth About Love’
Elli Goulding - Halcyon
Shimmering pop offerings are just around the corner, with the upcoming release of Ellie Goulding’s second album Halcyon. Whilst her first LP may have out stayed it’s welcome, many will be eager to see how this follow-up fairs. The first release from the album, ‘Anything Could Happen’, is available at the end of September. The album follows on 8th October.
Daughter - Smother
For those seeking something alternative, the release of Daughter’s ‘Smother’ will provide something suitably moody. It is a haunting piece, full of deep sorrow and a raw sense of regret. Not one for when you’re felling upbeat and elated, but this track provides a very intimate look at intense love. Out in October.
Peace - Delicious
Finally, recently signed Birmingham band Peace have released their first EP ‘Delicious’. Initial reviews and rumblings about the band have been nothing but positive. The EP promises great things from the band. The best known track, ‘California Daze’, is wonderfully hazy. The tracks ‘Ocean’s Eye’ and “1998” took me firmly back to my teens with their '90s sound. Routed in the bands intention to ‘cover’ the classic dance track ‘1998’ from Binary Finary, Peace's '1998' is a ten-minute wonder. If you have some time and the patience to let this track build, you will most definitely be rewarded!! I cannot wait to hear more from this band...