In 2001, Manchester band, Elbow released their debut album Asleep in the Back to decent critical acclaim, taking their place as a promising new English indie band. Their subsequent albums – Cast of Thousands (2003), Leaders of the Free World (2005), and The Seldom Seen Kid (2008) – would find them dominating the UK charts and selling out arenas in the UK and Europe. Since the release of The Seldom Seen Kid, Elbow has released a slew of “sleepier” albums with fewer upbeat, sing-along tracks on them. That all changes with the release of their tenth studio album, Audio Vertigo. The new album is a riveting journey through a kaleidoscope of soundscapes, showcasing the band’s adeptness at reinventing their musical identity while preserving the essence of their signature style. Each track on the album is a testament to Elbow’s ability to blend the familiar with the avant-garde, creating an auditory experience that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
The album kicks off with “Things I’ve Been Telling Myself For Years,” a track that immediately sets a bold tone for the album. The song’s pulsating rhythms and catchy guitar riffs create a rich, immersive soundscape that draws the listener in, while Guy Garvey’s powerful baritone weaves introspective lyrics that explore themes of self-perception and the complexities of human nature. This opening track is a brilliant showcase of Elbow’s ability to marry complex musical arrangements with profound lyrical depth, setting the stage for an album that continuously engages and surprises. “Lovers’ Leap” and “Balu” emerge as standout singles, each featuring an innovative use of horns to inject a vibrant, dynamic energy into the tracks. “Lovers’ Leap” captivates with its flitting horn-loop beat, crafting an irresistibly catchy song that exemplifies Elbow’s knack for creating unforgettable melodies. “Balu,” on the other hand, adds an extra layer to its big synth groove with the horn section, creating a rich, textured sound that is both complex and accessible. These tracks not only showcase the band’s musical versatility but also their ability to experiment with different elements while maintaining a cohesive sound.
“The Picture” is another highlight, offering a frisky, bouncing melody and progressive time changes that evoke a sense of adventure and exploration. This track stands as a testament to Elbow’s ability to push the boundaries of traditional song structures, creating a piece that is both innovative and deeply engaging. The album also features tracks like “Very Heaven” and “Good Blood Mexico City,” which continue to build on the album’s energetic momentum with their edgy rhythms and catchy guitar riffs. These songs are prime examples of Elbow’s talent for crafting tunes that are both melodically rich and rhythmically compelling. Audio Vertigo also underscores Elbow’s ability to craft songs that resonate on a personal level, with the closing track “From the River” serving as a heartfelt message from Garvey to his son.
Audio Vertigo is an album that not only showcases Elbow’s musical prowess but also their deep understanding of the emotional resonance of music. Each track is a carefully crafted piece that contributes to the album’s overall narrative, creating a listening experience that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. After a few sleepier albums, Elbow seems to return to form with Audio Vertigo, ultimately delivering an album that is compelling and innovative. Audio Vertigo is sure to resonate with fans old and new.
