Open Web Player
I'd compare this to U2's War/UF in the sense that it is making some waves, but I feel like Future Islands is about to have their Joshua Tree. Bold statement, but the songs here and on previous records indicate this band is only getting better. I love how you can hear elements of some of the 80s greatest New Wave bands from the New Order/early U2 basslines to the synth sound of OMD and Flock of Seagulls, but it's capped off by the incredible and unique vocals of Sam Herring, who has many voices on this record. Also, Herring's lyrics are really a marvel. Each song has a meaning and I can't find any lines that feel like throwaways. Everything has a purpose. Let's go track-by-track:
1. Seasons (Waiting on You) - You've undoubtedly heard of this one, and for good reason. The beauty of Future Islands is their ability to evoke a landscape musically (think U2's Joshua Tree evoking the desert). This is a perfect driving song, in my view; or a perfect anything song for that matter. It's the best track on the record, but don't let that keep you from listening to the whole thing, because I think there are other tracks that rival it. (5/5)
2. Spirit - How about that for an 80s opening? Accompanied by a "new" voice by Herring, we have a track in Spirit that is quite subdued to start, but picks up considerably with a bit of lead-up and then explodes into fine chorus. My only knock is this song could be a bit shorter which would make it more effective. (4/5)
3. Sun in the Morning - One of the best on here. A neat drip-drop opening that segues into another killer synth and bass combo. I love the lyrics on this one and Herring's vocals are fantastic. The brass is also a welcome change of pace that adds to the grandness of the chorus. The way this track flows seamlessly from chorus to verse makes a big difference as well. The final chorus with the back-up singers is a great send-off. Don't miss this one. (5/5)
4. Doves - A much groovier sounding song then the first three tracks, Doves has a fairly original sound to it. The echoed "oo's" on the chorus are great coupled with the bass that really picks up as well. My main hangup with the song is the repetition at the end, which is only a minor gripe, because most of the time I don't notice it, but sometimes I do. (4/5)
5. Back in the Tall Grass - A far more subdued song than its predecessors, Back in the Tall Grass is a welcome change of pace. After Herring's monotone-y vocals on the verse we hear that trademark growl on the chorus and it's perfect. This is a really great song, capped off with some cool backing vocals towards the end. (4.5/5)
6. A Song For Our Grandfathers - Kicking off side 2, we have a track that pays homage to the greatest generation. The lyrics really shine on this one, as well as the smooth instrumentation on the chorus. A really nice song with a nice message. (5/5)
7. Light House - This song kicks off what I'll call a haunting trilogy of songs (all of which are great). This might be my 2nd favorite song on the record. The acoustic guitar reminds me a bit of The Smiths, but the haunting nature of the song turns rather hopeful at the chorus. The lyrics shine here as Herring recalls being in a dark place and having a friend get him out. (5/5)
8. Like the Moon - This reminds me of David Bowie for some reason, but I can't say why, other than the fact that it's a fantastic song. Herring has noted in interviews that he lets the music write the lyrics, and that couldn't be more true here as the music screams the night, the moon and even space. I love the lyrics at the end "Just don't say goodbye/ I can be the world, tonight." Amazing. (5/5)
9. Fall From Grace - This is at dark as it gets. The buildup to each vocal explosion is just perfect and then the vocals themselves are quite jarring, but fit the song perfectly. The thing that makes it so effective is that it isn't screaming for screaming sake. The lyrics dictate it and the follow up to each scream are sublime. (5/5)
10. A Dream of You and Me - On first listen, you may think this is a carbon copy of Seasons, and while they are similar in structure, each song has its merits. The chorus on this one, for instance, plays with certain sayings/cliches in a way that makes for a great message. Also, this song nails the repetition of lines in a way I don't feel Spirit and Doves do. I also love that on live performances of this song Sam does the sign of the cross when he first sings "I ask myself for peace." Fantastic closer to a superb album (5/5)
Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime
Try Prime
and start saving today with fast, free delivery
Frequently bought together
$14.99
Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 22
Only 18 left in stock (more on the way).
Total price:
To see our price, add these items to your cart.
Choose items to buy together.
Similar items that may deliver to you quickly
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
From the manufacturer
|
|
|
|
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
Reviews with images
Records arrived broken in half
My record arrived broken in half. Completely destroyed.
Top reviews from other countries
Vincenzo
Una delle più belle letture musicali degli ultimi anni
Reviewed in Italy on March 25, 2024
