MARBLES

I will be reviewing the single disc. Quite the change in direction for the band as they become more subdued for the most part. Even Hogarth's vocals are almost whispered at times bringing to mind Mark Hollis from TALK TALK. I also thought of RADIOHEAD at times. As long as Hogarth is singing and Rothery is playing guitar I think i'll always like this band. I like this sound anyway as I am a fan of the other bands i've mentioned, as well as GAZPACHO's "Night" record which is in the same laid back vein.

"The Invisible Man" sounds a little experimental to open followed by lots of atmosphere.The reserved vocals and percussion with background synths work well. We're slowly building. Some good bass. The sound 5 minutes in is fantastic ! That sure sounds like sampled mellotron 7 1/2 minutes in. I love the brief angular guitar that follows. Pulsating synths.The vocals are getting more passionate. So emotional ! It calms right down with piano and reserved vocals. Slowly played guitar melodies follow. It eventually starts to build again 12 minutes in until passionate vocals and soaring guitar take our hearts to new heights. Incredible opening track. "Marbles I" is mellow with piano and relaxing vocals. "You're Gone" was released as a single and it did very well for them in the UK. It has an addictive beat throughout. The louder synths remind of PORCUPINE TREE. "Angelina" opens with the sound of someone getting into their car and playing with the radio. It features sleepy vocals with the music to match. Not a fan of this one.

"Marbles II" has a RADIOHEAD vibe to it. "Don't Hurt Yourself" is a pleasant and catchy tune. I like it better than "You're Gone". "Fantastic Place" starts slowly like "Invisible Man" with those Mark Hollis-like vocals. Great lyrics. Just an uplifting, fantastic song to drift away in. "Say you understand me and I will leave myself completely. Forgive me if I stare but I can see the island behind your tired eyes." Soaring guitar 4 1/2 minutes in. "Marbles III" is the best "Marbles" part in my opinion. Piano is joined by vocals and drums. It becomes emotional for me after a minute. "Drilling Holes" has a more aggressive sound. THE BEATLES spirit lives in this tune. Birds are chirping. Vocal melodies. Interesting song. "Marbles IV" is another mellow section. "Neverland" along with "Invisible Man" and "Fantastic Place" are my top 3 tracks. The guitar 2 1/2 minutes in is the best on the album. It simply soars as beautifully as Hogarth's vocals. The last 7 minutes of the song are pure bliss for me. No words, just listen.

Best release since "Afraid Of Sunlight". Edit : News flash ! I got the double cd version now as it has just been re-issued. Yay ! And more importantly i'm blown away especially by the track "Ocean Cloud" which moved me in a way that I haven't been for some time. For me this album is the best of the Hogarth era.