When Florence + the Machine first graced our ears with their cool and quirky first single; Kiss with a Fist from their mesmerising debut album, Lungs in 2009, it was clear that this band was no one-hit-wonder. Florence Welch’s empowering vocals teamed perfectly with her machines turbulent sounds, has created the most elegant, passionate and raw music to date- hurling them to the front of the race and making them one of the most popular bands in the UK. The excitement of their second album was only natural after a patient two year wait. Not surprisingly, the wait was worthwhile.
Ceremonials, released October 31st 2011, includes all the deep, fairy-tale dreamscapes we loved in the first album. An explosion of twelve magical, brawny tracks the fiery red head belts out with her huge voice. A gothic romance with anger and beauty twisted all into one, making it truly captivating to listen to. The music touches on gospel sounds such as Lover to Lover and Leave My Body, as well as tracks such as Spectrum and leading album single, What the Water Gave Me, that resembles their older sounds.
Disappointingly, it does seem that Welch lets her ‘machine’ overthrow certain tracks such as Heartlines and No Light, No Light that, simply put- sound too busy; leaving you feeling exhausted and making it impossible to listen to the whole album at once.
Nevertheless, Florence + the Machine’s Ceremonials doesn’t disappoint. A hybrid of indie, jazz, and rock music, creates a story of alluring but sinister romance Welch seems to be obsessed with. It is a talented and mature sound, seasoned off immaculately with the singer’s graceful voice- reminding us just how touching and beautiful music can be.
