Philip Selway, the drummer from Radiohead has released a solo album last year in august, and I recently got a hold of it and started listening, and I have to tell you I liked what I heard.
it's yet another acoustic-ish album (I seem to have a soft spot for them lately), and it is very interesting work.
but if you think that when listening to it you will hear something similar to Radiohead, you are mistaken. of course, a certain influence obviously exists somewhere deep down (after all, he has worked with Radiohead for almost 25 years - wow! I didn't realise that up until now when I did the math), but otherwise, it is truly something else.
this album shows a lot of courage, considering that it was created by the drummer of Radiohead (which is the most complex and dynamic band out there) and I think it was a challenge for Selway to create an acoustic album with so little percussion. and I have to mention that his whispery voice is really soothing and and a delight to listen to.
so, before listening to this album, let go of the fact that this guy is the drummer from Radiohead, and you will be truly impressed with what he has created.
1. beyond reason
2. the ties that bind us
3. a simple life
Released as single:
2. the ties that bind us
3. a simple life
Released as single:
4. by some miracle
beyond reason is the most amazing track on the album, starting with a twisted beat; and when the recurring guitar riff kicks in I'm already hooked. Then Philip Selway's soft voice combines with the instrumentals creating an interesting delayed music pattern, giving the song its unique character. The whole structure of the track displays certain Radiohead influences, and the vocal layout is similar to some of Thom Yorke's performances. still the track maintains it's own personality. the short guitar solo is a burst of energy which dynamises the general instrumental layout, and by starting and ending abruptly it leaves you wanting more.
an interesting "familial" message is transmitted through the ties that bind us, with a simple track, a strong vocal performance and minimal instrumentals. the lyrics, the message and Phil's voice are the main elements which dominate this track.
a simple life starts out like the telling of a secret, with an intimate feel created by an acoustic guitar and Phil's whispery voice. the lyrics also partake in creating this sensation of intimacy. the track evolves when a discreet percussion starts, strengthening the track's structure, which reaches climax when the brass arrangement explodes at the end.
by some miracle is a great album-opener, starting with the whispered "one, two, three, four" and then a catchy guitar riff. the overall instrumentals are composed of various sounds and noises, creating a strange rhythm with very little drum involvement. the whispered lyrics create an anxious feeling, and the female backing vocals emphasize the eerie sentiments exposed in this track, ending with the haunting "put it back, put it back, put it where you found it".
although it is a quiet album, this does not mean that Familial will not satisfy you if you are willing to give it a chance.
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