Parlophone (label)
27 October 2017 (released)
30 October 2017
As the release date for Stereophonics’ 10th studio album ‘Scream Above The Sounds’ arrived I’d already had the pleasure of looping this 11-track collection of indie-rock for just over a week, so, what’s in the box so to speak, what did I think?
Well, if you’ve seen these guys live, you’ll probably love them, and so, your experience of this album will probably be different to someone who’s not had the pleasure, and, whilst the same can be said for the relationship we forge with most acts we see perform, there’s something different about Stereophonics. There’s an emotional intensity about them that seems to stay with you, and, it’s as you hear new material that you begin to appreciate this relationship; the album opener ‘Caught by the Wind’, encapsulates this feeling perfectly, instantly recognisable and familiar whilst feeling brand new and fresh, a real statement of intent.
I like to think a good album is not dissimilar to an onion in that it has many layers, and, as you peel each layer back, you’re presented with another; this album really feels like that - a week in, the tracks are continually taking on new perspective, the emotional context in which you enjoy the music shifts, appreciation grows in different ways as you become more familiar with it. There lies the challenge in completing a review – at what point do you commit to an opinion?
What’s all the fuss about? is a track which typifies the changing relationship I’ve experienced with this album. The third song in, quite innocuous at first, perhaps, a measure of the tracks either side of it, however, the more I listened the more this track drew me in, resonated with me, I grew to appreciate its subtleties, its mood, its depth, and lyrically, it’s the song that keeps giving – as we go to press this is the standout track on the album for me.
I dare say I’ll change my mind by the weekend, as my mood shifts and my relationship with this album continues to evolve, but then, that’s what you want from an album; one week in it’s looking good, it definitely has legs.
