Album Review: Villagers – AWAYLANDS

You may remember that in the last issue of BBM Magazine we thoroughly enjoyed listening to the new Villagers single entitled, ‘Nothing Arrived’ and we ended that review with wishful thinking about the group’s forthcoming album {AWAYLANDS}. Well low-and-behold it has landed on our desk this month. But was it worth the wait?

The record’s opening notes fade in with the blissful sound of vocal harmonies and guitar picking that will force anyone to take note. As Conor O’Brien’s tender lyrics gently trickle from his lips and resonate within your ear, you’ll almost certainly become overwhelm with a sense of weightlessness. His descriptive lyrics flow beautifully and the raw emotion can be felt through the speakers.

Each track is filled with wonderful arrangements of acoustic instruments that have been skillfully blended with elements of the electronic world. The songs are smothered with stunning lyrics that each tell little tales as the songs evolve from one to the next.

‘The Bell’ is a thrilling tune that has a well-crafted, catchy chorus you’ll remember for days, but it’s the final track on the album, ‘Rhythm Composer’ that shows off this band at their best. A striking melody backed by tuneful words, playful horns and spacious echoes, all building to a bizarre and beautiful ending, what’s not to like?

Villagers have proven once again why they are such a hit with music lovers and critics alike. And to be honest they deserve all the success in the world. What better way to begin a new chapter of success than with this album.

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