Daniel Bednall

More tales of disenchantment from Middle America: the sister album to the more subdued '1st 2 pages of Frankenstein' this second release has more viger and vinegar. Berninger's lyrics tread the fine line between defeat and release, delivered with a subtlety that makes it as relatable as it is sad and so all the more shocking that he is singing about you, your neighbours and the people you pass in the supermarket. Dessner's arrangements are quietly beautiful as always but again have more punch than the above mentioned album, things are richer here, sometimes building to a brass backing, sometimes a menacing post punk. A true modern masterpiece.

In retrospect, this is a very solid, retro, pop-rock album. At the time of release, the world was suffering from Liam Gallagher fatigue; his bad boy antics were no longer fashionable, he shouldered most of the blame for the Oasis split and it was easy to view the album as a collection of said bands cast offs. Approaching the album with an open mind some 15 years later is a more enjoyable experience. What it lacks in the powerful and memorable choruses that the missing Gallagher seemingly dreams up, it makes up for in energy, late 60s summer vibes and the musicality of Gem Archer and Andy Bell. Liam also produces the best vocals since the early days of Oasis, more Lennon than Lydon.

As far as post Beatles albums go, one of the best I've heard. George Harrison's sober restraint seems to perfectly counter balance Jeff Lynn's pop grandiose making them a great pairing. Theres a solid set of songs on here, When We Was Fab and Got My Mind Set On You being obvious standouts, but theres no filler and the whole album flows nicely. Sure the 80s production dates it slightly, but that just makes it a joyous, retro, relic to be celebrated and fill the soul with nostalgia. A good, solid, classic rock LP!

Damon's second break up album, after 13, demands repeat listening in order to seep into your bones and for you to really appreciate its mostly understated beauty. At first I asked myself, is this a Blur album or an Albarn solo with his old band backing? But when you allow the textures to gently immerse you into this world, you realise how each musician has built the foundations. I find these songs sticking in my head and in years to come believe several of them will easily stand alongside their back catalogue.