I liked their first album, K, but I was overjoyed, mesmerized and in love with their sophomore album PP&A album in 1999. Probably my favorite album that year. I was greatly disappointed when they went their separate ways after that, and I was not really impressed with Crispian Mills follow-up band The Jeevas.
So, when word got out that they were back together in 2006 recording their next album, Strangefolk, for release in 2007, I waited with bated breath, hoping to God that they returned to form to bring a truly extraordinary album. Needless to say, it was not PP&A.
But, it is still Kula Shaker, and it is still a continuation of the mystical and magical sound that they started with. Many of the songs carry the same qualities of their previous albums, and there is also sound of growth and the wisdom of maturity throughout. They showed themselves to be a new yet older band than they were previously. Crispian's lyrics and melodies still carried that same youthful approach, albeit a bit weird and bizarre, but you could still tell that life had changed him, whether he realized it or not.
The album is a solid rocker and definitely a keeper. It still carries that album-oriented sound, even as the singles stand out in their pop-hook purity. The orchestration and harmonious instrumentation is at near perfection, and worthy of repeat listening and analyzation. They've earned their right as leaders in the Britrock, Psychedelic and Rock genres, a band to be recognized and emulated.
They progressively get better on their next two albums, but this one stands as a much needed reunion of their sound and story. Enjoy what we've got here.
Sorry for the delay. Still recovering. (Just call me Captain Melodrama)
I LOVE this album. I think it's just as strong as the first two, honestly. I was just so happy to hear that they'd reunited that as long as they put out ANY new music, I don't think I would have been disappointed. I seriously thought that they wouldn't be as good the "second time around," but honestly, they really outperformed my expectations. I love the whole album, but my favorite tracks have to be "Out on the Highway," "Second Sight," and the title track. A much-longed-for reunion, and long may they continue to make music together!
ReplyDeleteThis album kicks ass! One track you do seem to be missing though is the song 'Drink tea for the love of god'. It's quirky but awesome. :)
ReplyDeleteIt sucks that they had to release anniversary versions of their first two albums on their own. They cost a fortune now and I'd have loved to have gotten them.
I didn't know about that track. It would have been part of that release. It appears that my research wasn't as thorough as it should have been. Thank you for the info!
DeleteI think it was released as a free xmas song that year on their website. :)
DeleteStrangefolk B-Sides link is dead? Would you mind updating it! :)
ReplyDeleteRe-up?
ReplyDelete