Elbow - Build a Rocket Boys!
For most fans the breakthrough success of 2008's "The Seldom Seen Kid" was about time. Of course, the majestic pitch-perfect 'One Day Like This' was their massive asset - coveting mainstream appeal in vehicles such as Big Brother's 'best bits' video, Waterloo Road, The Soloist and Coronation Street amongst others. Their unique brand of safe and cozy stadium rock set them apart from fellow pioneers Coldplay and U2 with their kind of familiar vibe and ability to make the mundane sound magnificent. I've personally liked them since 2005's 'Forget Myself' caught my eye on a generic channel 4 late night music slot, but that's neither here nor there. So 'Build a Rocket Boys!' will come as a welcome addition to those who liked 2008. I've mulled over it since I got my hands on it on Friday. The 8 minute opener 'The Birds' picks up where their ambition and celebratory sounds left off - a prog-rock opus of harmonic whispers