Band: Villagers
Release: {Awayland} (Album)
Release Date: Out Now
Following their Mercury Prize nomination for the critically acclaimed debut Becoming A Jackal, the Ireland based Villagers may rightly be feeling the pressure placed upon their follow up, {Awayland}. With their debut boasting a particularly gentle singer-songwriter structure, {Awayland} pushes the boundaries further than the comparably safe forerunner. Although retaining the off-kilter compositions and interchanging styles that successfully separated Becoming A Jackal from the restof the pack – ultimately resulting in the aforementioned nomination – the new material embraces the experimental moments more than anything in the past.
The grandiose moments are significantly expanded – at times {Awayland} plays like a cinematic soundtrack or a melodramatic stage production. Some may reject the direction, citing notions of melodrama or unnecessary flamboyance, yet it sits comfortably against frontman Conor O’Brien’s sultry tones and expertly delicate delivery. The accompanying music similarly increases the expansive atmosphere, cleverly introducing a wealth of string instruments which deliberately avoid overpowering the fundamental simplicity of the sound.
The most exciting moments are when Villagers sample new techniques, such as the beat structure on ‘Earthly Pleasure’ or the electronic nods in ‘The Waves’. Album closer ‘Rhythm Composer’ walks the fine line between the Villagers of the previous records and the substantial theatrics. Rather than overloading the album with these moments they are placed sporadically throughout the record, effortlessly gliding between the simplistic and the extravagant.
This balance sits at the heart of the release, developing upon the simple beauty of Becoming A Jackal and daring to broaden the sound’s horizon. The step away from their previous record is not huge, instead opting not to alienate previous fans or run the risk of becoming a new band altogether. Those who enjoyed Becoming A Jackal will find just as much to enjoy on the new album. That said, the progress between the two records is clear – the increased use of string instruments and elaborate soundscapes provide the means to truly enfold the audience. Villagers did not need to change their formula, yet their brave (albeit subtle) directional shift has resulted in a genuinely enticing and enjoyable record.
9/10
Reviewer: Ben Tipple
