Glasvegas - EUPHORIC HEARTBREAK
The eagerly awaited follow up to their critically acclaimed eponymous debut album, the 2008 self titled piece, Glaswegian quartet Glasvegas have put together a huge, layered, atmospheric collection entitled 'EUPHORIC HEARTBREAK'.
Known for their big anthemic sounds, the band have incorporated more synthesizers and the delivery of the angst driven lyrics seems to capture more raw emotion. The band consists of James Allan (vocals), Rab Allan (guitar), Paul Donoghue (bass) and new drummer Jonna and together they have produced a remarkable and haunting album.
The random French talking vocal over the complex layering and haunting chords on the album opener 'Pain Pain, Never Again' seems to fit so well and lulls the listener in to a dream like place. Once in there, you are hooked. The second track is 'The World Is Yours' which was made available as a free download by the band. The first impression of this is the Kings Of Lean meets The Smiths. It has an addictive chorus, unique vocal style and an anthemic feel; and ideal single.
There are some big tunes on the album. Huge atmospheres abound, whilst catchy chorus are everywhere. 'You', 'Shine Like Stars' and 'Euphoria, Take My Hand' have it all. The big atmospheric sounds and choral interlude of 'You' are complimented nicely by the futuristic synthesiser intro and rockier rhythm of ''Shine Like Stars'. They are both outdone with the enormous cathedral keyboards with big vocals to match on 'Euphoria, Take My Hand'; a big, catchy anthem.
The melancholic vocal style adds an individual edge and this is typified with 'the up tempo 'Stronger Than Dirt (homosexuality pt.2)' and 'I Feel Wrong (homosexuality pt.1)', the latter having some very effective guitar thrown in. Musically and lyrically, Glasvegas have grown. The slow, almost rock ballad feel of 'Whatever Hurts You Through The Night' is complex; it's layered backing and occasional eerie noise showing that they aren't afraid to move out of their comfort zone. The chord phrasings are often challenged and this can be seen in full on 'Dream Dream Dreaming'; which has many elements of many of the other tracks. The album fades quietly with melancholy vocals over sad keyboards on 'Lots Sometimes' and then finally with the affected keyboards and soft singing on 'Change'.
This is an album that truly captures the atmospheric anthemic sound of Glasvegas, whilst producing some quieter, reflective moments to compliment the big catchy choruses. This band will go far.