The LA sound? Yes. The Seattle sound? Yes. The Devon sound? Well that’s possibly not one many people are used to hearing, however Metronomy aim to change that with their third album ‘The English Riviera’. Using the resort’s name and logo for this new release, the band have attempted to create an album that gives Devon it’s own sound, because apparently, ‘at the moment it’s crap’.
Since previous album ‘Nights Out’, frontman Joe Mount has co written with Girls Aloud’s Nicola Roberts, and remixed artists such as Gorillaz, Klaxons and Kate Nash. So then, it’s no surprise to see that some of those pop sensibilities have rubbed off on him; not by compromising what made Metronomy likeable to begin with, but by giving this album more catchy songs and potential singles than before.
The album begins with sounds of seagulls, waves and a string quartet - a description conjuring slightly cheesy imagery, but the reality is far from it. These sounds are perfect for setting the scene for where Metronomy are celebrating their Devon roots. We’re next hit with a glimpse in to how the band has matured with first song ‘We Broke Free’. Thankfully, Metronomy haven’t changed too much, and fans of their previous work will still recognise this as the same band instantly.
Second track ‘Everything Goes My Way’ projects pure Metronomy and drummer Anna Prior takes centre stage with most of the vocals from her. This is an extremely catchy song, featuring their minimalist style with mostly bass and drums for accompaniment.
First single from the album ‘The Look’ reminds us we’re still as the seaside as what sounds like an accordion is included. More catchy hooks show that the band have kept true to themselves, yet they understand what it’s going to take to bring their success on that little bit further since ‘Nights Out’. ‘She Wants’ is instantly darker sounding - using warped keyboards, and is moodier than the rest.
‘Trouble’ is dreamy and floating, filled with nostalgia, fitting right in with the album’s seaside theme. The lyrics; “I don’t want to go out, you don’t want to stay in, I guess we’re going to argue again” prove that Joe Moat’s lyrical subjects have moved on to speak of relationships rather than ‘going out and having a crap time’ which is what album ‘Nights Out’ was apparently based on.
‘The Bay’ is especially dance-influenced and builds with a swirling mix of electronica and whooshing synth.
Perhaps not quite so capturing; ‘Loving Arm’ is crying out for a remix, however Metronomy was built on sparse sounds and minimalism so there’s no denying the band aren’t going to desert their roots. ‘Corinne’ gives way to another hooky tune. The signature bass and drums drive this track, laced with sparkling guitar and synth to include the depth Metronomy now possess.
A gentle, echoing song is penultimate track ‘Some Written’, where flute and lo-fi synth sounds are scattered throughout what might have been a simple ballad. We come to the last track on ‘The English Riviera’ and we’re hit with a mix of sounds and rhythms. Here, minimalism mixes with dance and some fun ideas; definitely recognisable as Metronomy, but an indication of how they’ve grown and where they can go musically.
'The English Riviera' really isn’t too far away from being a pop album, with such brilliantly memorable songs. If this is Devon’s new sound, then it’s inhabitants should be proud of the band that have managed to blend experimental ideas with songs that are just so fun to listen to.
Album Rating: 8/10
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Since previous album ‘Nights Out’, frontman Joe Mount has co written with Girls Aloud’s Nicola Roberts, and remixed artists such as Gorillaz, Klaxons and Kate Nash. So then, it’s no surprise to see that some of those pop sensibilities have rubbed off on him; not by compromising what made Metronomy likeable to begin with, but by giving this album more catchy songs and potential singles than before.
