Perhaps not quite as wonderful as 2013’s Arc
(which placed at 3 on that year’s list), Everything
Everything’s third record nonetheless cements their place as one of the
most interesting bands around. Their
electronic rock sound is bolder and more epic in scope here, and – musically – this
is a resolutely uplifting and positive record.
They have become way more adventurous and exploratory on Get to
Heaven. When it works (‘No
Reptiles’, ‘Distant Past’) it’s their best work yet. Nonetheless, this is a less focussed and
coherent album than either of their previous efforts. Lyrically, it is an evil beast, dealing
with dark themes like the rise of ISIS and the woeful outcome of the 2015
general election in the UK. Violence,
isolation and pain feature heavily, starkly juxtaposed to the euphoric music in
a way that works beautifully. Jonathan
Higgs’ unique falsetto remains a key element, but it is used less often here
than in the past, and so has more impact when it appears: a wise choice,
because the greater vocal range adds more layers to the songs. A self-contradictory record, which toys with
being a masterpiece before settling on being merely excellent. They are close to that breakthrough.
sample track: Distant Past
sample track: Distant Past
