Customer Reviews

Peloton

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

When they're not promoting Bis, Mogwai, or Arab Strap, the heads of Britain's Chemikal Underground Records (Emma Pollock and Alun Woodward) like to make music for themselves. "Peloton" is a low-profile wonder -- it doesn't bowl you over on first listen, but gradually builds until you realize you've just listened to the CD seven straight times. The sound is essentially folk elements brought into the standard two-guitars/bass/drums rock format. But the melodies, musical ideas, and lyricism -- as well as small touches of let's-try-anything -- makes for magical listening. (Think Richard and Linda Thompson, or REM in their "Fables of the Reconstruction" era.) I'd give it an extra half-star if only the review form would let me. I've got an import version that includes an 11th song, titled "The Weaker Argument Defeats the Stronger," which I hope is indeed included on the American version.

I loved their first album, but I also love the folky overtones of this release. Only a band of major talent can pull off such a switch in styles. The Delgados have become a band to watch closely with great delight.

I think this album comes at a time when I am tired of those over sampled HEAVY beats. The back to the basics route lulls me into playing this disc perpetually. A contemporary answer to the folk singers of the late 60's -minus the flower power and political agendas. We aren't talking about the Carpenters or Dylan with synths and samples, just a simpler form of new music that becomes part of an insatiable music urge.

So there you have it. Now I suggest you to get it.

"Peloton" is an album that speaks to the listener of insecurities and confusion, in a soft, almost folksy way. It is a compilation of songs that flow easily from one to the next... Like other delgados Cd's, the songs do not strike you as incredible on the first listen but seep into your mind and become beautiful there. The songs have brilliant lyrics and are sung with Emma's soft voice, but the album is not a peaceful nothing. Just listen to it... I promise you'll love it.