WELCOME TO THE PLANET

It's truly a tragedy to think that this is the last Big Big Train we will hear with David Longdon, who is easily the reason why the band is as critically acclaimed as it is now. He singlehandedly leveled-up the quality of the band in general and provided a great sense of musicality and musicianship to every album.

This is the last album with David and I must say it's probably their best since English Electric Part Two. It's truly amazing. Songs aren't long or overextended, they're concise and precise, hitting the nail on the head when it comes to their purpose. The album is divided in two sides.

First Side:

Standouts would be Made From Sunshine which is a very optimistic and uplifting, with a generally-fast-paced feel. The Connection Plan with interesting violin work staying in 7/8 most of the song. Capitole Venus which is a sweet short interlude with great vocals from Longdon.

Second Side:

Bats In The Balfry is a great instrumental with a phenomenal ending drum solo. Oak And Stone is a more chill and epic song alá The Wide Open Sea. The title track closes the album well and pompously with its majestic chorus. Roper Jack Froster is really good too and it reminds me of the English Electric Era.

Really liked this album, as a matter of fact I liked all the songs in it. I would put this album in their top five for sure and it's definitely an essential record for anyone who's getting into the band. It's probably their most accessible album as well. Five Stars!