A series of unlinked events and circumstances seem to have conspired and culminated in a lack of reviews appearing recently, subsequently my list of unreviewed releases is getting longer.
There was therefore no rhyme nor reason that I picked Archipelago, the new album by Falkirk based synth pop 4-piece Vulture Party ahead of the numerous other releases I have on my list.
Perhaps it was serendipity at play, as several of the songs here seemed to speak to my current circumstances, or perhaps it is just my own subconscious twisting and turning the lyrics and song messages to my own end. Whatever the reason, the album is a comforting and inspiring listen in many ways. I’m well past my first flush of youth, so I’m not naive enough to say music is a cure all, but I do know just how edifying listening to music is, and of the restorative nature of listening to music that really strikes a chord. For that reason alone, Archipelago came at just the right time.
The follow up to their 2020 self-titled debut album kicks off with a soothing trip hop beat, before adding delicate keys, a sweeping synth and a low empathetic bass. Layer on top of that the affecting vocals from David and Louise, blending together in an elegantly harmonious unity. You can’t help but be drawn in by the mesmeric qualities that the combination of hypnotic music and vocals creates. The message in the lyrics couldn’t be more appropriate from a personal perspective at this point in time – “Better days will come, if you want them to…”
The other song that particularly strikes a chord with me at this time is the second single from the album, Afterlife. One of the most upbeat songs on the album, a driving drumbeat underlining the compelling melodious synths, David and Louise’s alluring vocals once again playing off each other in bewitching style. Despite my being an atheist, and not believing in an afterlife, there is something quite comforting in the thoughts and imagery that are created while listening to this anthemic uplifting song, even if it is just the reassuring thought that the spirit and memories of a person live on after death, and no-one can take them away from you.
The album closes with yet another hugely edifyingly behemoth of a tune. Try not to be lifted from the doldrums by Let Love Shine (On Your Misery Now). Almost dub like in nature with its low pulsating throb, the song blends elements of gospel like exaltations and dance beats to create an exhilaratingly stirring rave anthem, almost spiritual in its effect.
Though I’ve highlighted these three particular tracks, I do not mean to belittle any of the other songs on the album, it’s just that on first listen, these three songs really spoke to me on a personal level. There are no weak points in this gloriously uplifting album.
You may already be familiar with another of the albums stand out songs, the extraordinarily addictive single Blood Wolf Moon which adds crunching guitar riffs to the synth based sonorous rhythms. Also single Iso Disco which almost has me thinking of INXS and Need You Tonight when it kicks off, before it reveals itself to be a darkly throbbing slow burner that creeps up slowly on you.
The dual vocals of David and Louise are used to great effect throughout, Disintegrate is another fine example of where they come together with a seemingly effortless synergy. Ride That Feeling has an anchoring effect, a laid-back mellow rhythm, and lyrics that paint pictures in your mind, an almost mindful effect, before the intensity builds giving a potent feeling of wellbeing
There are songs that have more of disquieting effect on you, These Desert Eyes has an upbeat rhythm, but there is an underlying feeling of sadness that goes along with the lyrics “I only find solace in you”, while penultimate track Leave Your Parables has Louise take the vocal lead on what is perhaps the most unsettling and dramatically affecting song on the album, sparse arrangement used to electrifying effect.
A wonderful tonic of an album that has come at just the right time for me from a personal perspective.
Vulture Party – Last Night From Glasgow