CD of The Week

It’s always cool to watch bands evolve over time. It seems that Bombay Bicycle Club are doing just that, or are they? Perhaps they’ve never really had a sound to begin with. From their indie rock debut, to their acoustic follow up, to their dream rock third record, one might argue that they’re a jack of all trades, and that they write what inspires them. Their fourth record So Long, See You Tomorrow fits right in with theme just described; it’s not like any of their first three. This time, electro-rock would generally describe their sound. Lead singer and writer Jack Steadman produced the record, and apparently was influenced by the band's travels in India, Turkey, Europe and Japan. The result is another excellent new sound from this London foursome.

The opening track "Overdone" sets the record in the motion immediately with one of the more dance-ier songs on the record. It has an almost hip-hop beat supported by cool guitar riffs, and Steadman’s angelic voice. "It’s Alright Now" follows the opening track, and is certainly an album stand out. The listener can hear a very nice blend of all sorts of sounds that blend perfectly together. "Carry Me," which was the first single from the record, might be the most electronic song on the record with it’s heavy synth beats. BBC’s buddyLucy Rose is once again featured on this record, appearing on this track, and more prominently on the song "Home By Now." Once again, her voice sounds lovely, especially over the electronic sounds that the boys have created. Throw in a couple slow tracks ("Whenever, Wherever" and "Eyes Off You"), the awesome track "Feel" that was cleary influenced by Steadman’s time in India, and an appearance by an up and comer named Rae Morris on the song called" Luna," and Bombay Bicycle Club have put out a great record from beginning to end.

The fact they keep going in different directions with their music is an impressive feat not only because they have the creativity to do it, but they also have the talent to do it well. Chalk up another winner for Bombay Bicycle Club and their record So Long, See You Tomorrow. Be sure to check out how the album translates live when they come to Union Transferon May 7th.