When it comes to inspiration, our senses can definitely free
our mind. In my constant search for great music, 9 years ago I stumbled upon an
English band that would become one of my favorites and would eventually mark my
work to a huge degree. Elbow is on my bucket list to see live for several reasons although
the obvious one is that their music is amazing. A band that still believes in
albums, track listings and letting your ears take you on a journey, each Elbow
album is amazing in its own right and they keep getting better, which is why
they are the band I’ve most recommended in my life... well that and the fact that a lot of
people still don’t know about them stateside at least.
Regardless, the Elbow lads have incredible layers of sound
with deep soulful lyrics that are quite relatable. They can capture beauty in the simplest of
things and describe friendship in a way I don’t think anyone else can. Then
again, these are guys who enjoy each other’s company, who play because they
enjoy it, who write and play because they love it and who go out for a beer
right after a show because they’re family.
In my writing they figure largely into a short story in an
upcoming compilation and a YA novel that is about 25% done. In my life, they
pop in regularly when I need a pick me up or just because. They also
consistently figure into lists of people I’d most like to have a beer with and
chat. While other English bands are full of themselves, Elbow has always been
characterized by how low key they are, even when writing music that is a
permanent staple in the soundtrack of my life.
If you haven’t listened to them, by all means, do yourself a
favor and change that.
No comments:
Post a Comment