Artiste: Damon Albarn
Album: Everyday Robots
Release Date: 25th April 2014
Rating: 5/5
Words By: Kieran Wade
Damon Albarn – most will recognise him for his contribution to the Britpop movement throughout the 90s with Blur, however, he’s had his fair share of side projects over the years, more recently Everyday Robots – Albarn’s first studio solo album. And it doesn’t disappoint in the slightest.
Right from the first track, appropriately named “Everyday Robots”, you should get a sense of what the rest of the album has in store – really mellow and relaxing songs that are easy to listen to whilst maintaining well structured lyrics that are both catchy and meaningful.
It’s important to remember that this isn’t just another Gorillaz or Blur “sounding” album, rather some of the most original and personal pieces of music Albarn has put together to date. One of the best songs is “Mr. Tembo” – Albarn provides some incredible vocal melodies accompanied with this mesmerising choir (The Leytonstone City Mission Choir) in the background.
There are two interlude pieces titled “Parakeet” and “Seven High”, which seem to be Albarn experimenting with the piano, creating these quick and catchy feel-good tunes. “The Selfish Giant” stands out on the album and that’s down to Albarn’s ghostly vocals along with guest vocalist Natasha Khan’s contributions, making for an immensely enjoyable listening experience.
Overall, Albarn has his head in so many projects and it’s Everyday Robots that really shows what the Britpop pioneer is truly capable of – a must-listen for those who can appreciate an album that’s completely relaxing and immersive.
Have you had a listen to this album? What are your thoughts? Drop a comment below or tweet us at @SHUlifemusic
