Well, this gets full points for originality for a start! Though MIDLAKE are reworking the definitive progressive rock sounds of the seventies, this is just the starting point to their second full-length release. Heavy rhythm playing and voxed out epic guitars are the springboard to a densely textured musical treat that is arranged to take your breath away completely.
There is a concept, of course. In fact this is the definitive soundtrack to a whole set of values -‘The Trials Of Van Occupanther’ is driven entirely by a need to break free from the constraints of modern life and the hectic poison that goes with it. Whether the journey is back in time, or out into the middle of nowhere it is an enchanting one, folk-drenched and deeply meditative, yet with a brand-newness about the resulting songs. MIDLAKE stand alone with no contemporaries whatsoever. Only their uniqueness is there to consider as a measure of quality. That or a timescale (and even then you would have to borrow the machine off H.G.Wells!).
It turns out immediately that there is no need for quality control here. This is stunning material with a pastoral, back-to-basics feel that gravitates towards the beauty of the elements and the changing of the seasons. From the opener, ‘Roscoe’, you know that it’s going to be a good ‘un. Thankful for the rain, and hoping for a break from the city routine, The key to its beauty lies in the documentation of who, rather than what gets left behind.
Human contact is as vital to the record’s core as material possessions are unnecessary. The home is of central importance, but time and again in the lyrics we are reminded that this is nothing without someone there to welcome you. Emotional warmth and the ice-cold empty chill of loneliness are two extremes explored:
|
“Let me not get down from walking with no-one” is the title track’s gentle chide, rich in piano and warm acoustics before that sad, sad reedy tones add organic melody, pure and sublime:
“Let me not be too concerned with this world
Sometimes I wanna go home, and stay out of sight for a long time”
‘It Covers The Hillsides’ sees the magic of childhood captured in the full natural sparkle of winter in stunning technicolour joy. Snow has perhaps never inspired a greater ode, one that sweeps you along in an infectious and carefree celebration, music as complex as the sentiments are simple. This is uncluttered with bullshit, or plastic glitter, and full, so full of meaning that you glow inside.
The straightforward acoustic guitar drags along in despair during ‘Chasing After Deer’ and carries a human connection that reaches out, the image strong, unattainable and futile, but the message is crystal clear:
“The sea is not mine”. What a refrain.
This is one of the most moving and original albums you are ever likely to hear, and hear it you must - it is an absolute belter!
http://www.myspace.com/midlake
|
