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Bruce Soord and friends have
come up with an excellent album, a collection of songs that
marks the culmination of the band’s substantial studio and
live work since their debut release in 2000. "10 Stories Down"
is apparently a polished and re-mixed version of their previous
album "12 Stories Down". ***
In fact The Pineapple Thief
are closer to contemporary "English indie pop-rock" than "progressive
rock", although there are touches of mellotron here and there.
No quirky time signatures or widdly solos here! Instead there
are deeply personal lyrics, extremely well-crafted songs,
and an atmosphere of beautiful sadness. Some have suggested
the likes of No Man, Porcupine Tree and Radiohead as possible
reference points, and I'd add James and Keane and even latter-day
Marillion (who they have supported) as other pointers. Sophisticated
and heartfelt indie pop-prog might be a fair description.
***
Much of the vocal and lyrical
style in particular is very Radiohead, and as with them, some
people may find the relentless themes of depression, loss
and emotional torment a bit much after a while. Titles like
"Wretched Soul" and "My Own Oblivion" give the game away.
Otherwise there is some fantastic guitar and some great string
arrangements. A great deal of time and effort has obviously
gone into this album and the musicianship and production are
absolutely first class. Tracks such as "Prey For Me" and "Light
Up Your Eyes" are simply great tunes that stick in your head.
***
I personally prefer this
to much of the "prog" that has been released over the last
couple of years. Bruce Soord and friends deserve every success,
there is strong commercial potential in their sound. It will
be interesting to see where the music takes them next. Their
first American appearance is at the RoSfest festival in late
April 2006. "10 Stories Down" is a great album. ***
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