Music

Review: Ben Howard

17 November 2014

By Lilly

Ben Howard’s new album –a spiritual journey in to depth and distance

I Forget Where We Were is a spiritual and emotional journey into Ben Howard’s inner being. Combining echoing guitar riffs, poetic lyrics and atmospheric introductions, Howard has crafted a piece of musical genius.

After his debut album, Every Kingdom sold over a million copies world-wide, and picking up two awards at last year’s Brits, a lot was expected from the 27 year old Devonshire folk writer, and in a moment of plaintive creativity, he has delivered.

Following the release of the single ‘End of the Affair’ on the 5th August, which features on the latest LP, I Forget Where We Were offers an alternative approach to the fast paced sing-a-long choruses of Every Kingdom. By fully delving in to the themes of spirituality and emotional development previously brushed upon, Ben has managed to not only pluck out some intense tunes but pull on the heart-strings of his ever growing fan base.

This album is not for a casual listen on a Sunday afternoon by any stretch of the imagination. Its disjointed melodies particularly featured in the opening math-rock track ‘Small Things’ take some listening to. However, as with any great artists work, the key is to take a step back and appreciate the broader picture, and although individually, the tracks may seem lengthy and heavy, the album as a whole is a stunning example of a true artists work. Its spacious riffs and lyrical intensity take the listener on a 50 minute voyage into mind and matter, through depth and distance.

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