The Return of Elbow

Elbow is arguably one of the finest English bands of the last twenty years. The band has released five studio albums and a B-sides compilation (as well as a recording with the BBC concert orchestra at the infamous Abbey Road studio) to date. All the records were of a very high calibre and the band has become admired, especially by critics and a loyal fan base, for its quality output. The news that early next year Elbow return to the stage, along with new album ‘Carry Her Carry Me’ is indeed good news. Guy Garvey and co. are, in such rapidly changing times, what seem like a genuinely warm and humble bunch of blokes making heartfelt music, because they can and they want to, not for any hidden agenda. The nuances within the band’s songs are beautiful, the lyrics intelligent and bright. At times the band chooses to play quietly and somehow it makes the loudest noise. It is music made by brainy men for listeners who can appreciate what these men offer. Some of Garvey’s lyrics are among the finest you’ll hear, and they are sung with a tenderness and an authenticity to support the emotions that is quite frankly rather rare and at times astonishing.

Elbow has never let anyone down, never made a bad album, and retained its identity and passion for what it does. While everyone can pick a favourite album or two from the band’s back catalogue the standard has never really dipped below brilliant, in any of those long players.

So what can we expect from the new album? Early comments from the band suggest that the music has an awareness and reaction to the arrival at middle age contemplated as the band’s members all head toward the 40 year old mark. The sound isn’t likely to be overly removed from the past material, though the word ‘experimental’ has been used, by the band itself. That causes curiosity for sure, though few would hope the sound to alter too much. As with some bands, the slight adaptation to the sonic template that comes with personal and musical evolution will be heard, but who knows where exactly they have gone. That is what makes the wait ever more exciting.  The band will have stayed true to itself and maintained its magic, no doubt. Garvey’s lyrics will resonate with all those of a similar age and probably beyond.

It is a welcome return, at a time when Elbow is still one of the best bands England has. Like a fine wine Elbow is ageing well, and perhaps hasn’t yet peaked. Pencil 10^th March, 2014 (UK release date) into your diary, a new Elbow album is a reason to write home.