THE LIKES OF US

Wow|! For a long time I thought English Electric Part 2 was the best Big Big Train record of their extensive discography. Now I´m not so sure. I bought this CD without hearing as single note, just because a friend in a local estore told me it was released in Brazil (the first BBT to be released here). And I have no regrets! I always knew that a record from this band was garanteed of at least good music, but I was not ready for such masterpiece of music.

The first full release of original material since the unexpected and very sad passing of former singer/multi instrumentist David Longdon, the album is packed with emotion, melancholy and inspiration. Certainly the feeling of sorrow pervates most of the songs, but it is not a downer. In fact, it´s more celebratory than mournful, and the melodies are simply gorgeous. I have seen many bands trying to emulate Genesis take on the 12 string acoustic guitar, but BBT is one of the very few tht really suceed in capturing the vibe of Peter Gabriel´s era band. The arrangements are just perfect and after months listening to it I still cannot find any fault. The songwriting, performances and production are all top notch.

New singer Alberto Bravin was a inspirational choice: the guy co-writes five of the the eight tracks, plays several instruments (but, alas, no flute!) and has a excellent voice. It´s hard to believe this is his first studio with the band. He sounds like he´s been with them forever! And the band is so tight and harmonical, the instrumental parts are fantastic, you have to listen to believe.

The Likes fo Us is one of the very few records nowadays I enjoy from start to finish without skipping a single track, even though it´s quite varied and ecclectic. All songs are highlights in some way and there is not a single weak track to be found. Even the ballad Love Is The Light (written for Bravin´s wife) is one of the most poignant I heard in a long time. The backing vocals are another great feature too.

After all those years (and a string of great works), Big Big Train still is capable of producing something powerful and unique. If you like inspirational, emotional and elaborated music, you can´t miss this masterpiece of prog music. It was the album of the year for me. Those guys are really one fo a kind.

Rating: five stars for a perfect album.

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