Avalanches’ third album
Two lovely surprises have brought the year in music to a close. We’ll get to Taylor Swift in a second, but first The Avalanches bring joy to the world on their third album in 20 years.
Their 2000 debut, Since I Left You, remains one of the most original and painstakingly perfect albums made this century. Mixing hundreds of samples, sounds and styles, it is that rare record that does not age, eternally sounding like it travelled from another universe.
Wildflower, in 2016, was more warped, a patchy collection of songs not nearly as accessible or fun. But it wasn’t without its good bits.
In a wonderful surprise, We Will Always Love You is good from beginning to end. Despite teeming with a wide range of guests (Johnny Marr, Blood Orange), it still finds a cohesive flow. Finding flow is what The Avalanches do best. Equalisers constantly drop out the bass, or single out hi-hats, as deep grooves switch gear.
Like their timeless debut, this record is a journey that rewards being listened to as a whole but, of course, there are standouts. Reflecting Light shines bright with crisp vocals from Sananda Maitreya (formerly Terence Trent D’Arby) soaring over stunning strings.
Music Makes Me High feels like a party scene from Boogie Nights, and Running Red Lights trundles along with a nostalgic shimmer courtesy of Rivers Cuomo. The pinnacle though, is easily Wherever You Go, featuring a heart-warming hook from Neneh Cherry and some extra juice from Jamie xx.
We Will Always Love You is a breezy, welcome accompaniment to summer. It’s an album that whisks by and slowly, surely, seeps into your subconscious.
Meanwhile, Taylor Swift is going through some kind of creative growth spurt. Perhaps