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Falling Off The Lavender Bridge is the debut album by British artist Lightspeed Champion (the new solo moniker for Dev Hynes, ex-member of noise-punk outfit Test Icicles).
For those expecting Hynes to reprise the full-on sound of his previous band, you are in for a bit of a shock. Instead think acoustic guitar, indie pop, melodic female accompaniment and a country tinge... a country tinge? Yep.
Now just as you’re starting to get your head around what this album might have to offer, let me throw you another curve ball... this comes in the form of Hynes' jarring lyrics. Take for example first single, ‘Galaxy of the Lost’. It is a melodic, perfectly paced pop song – but listen closely "…my neck will burn...as we kiss and I'm sick in your mouth…lick my open wounds…". That’s right, on the surface we have an indie sound for pimply college teens, but underlying it all is Hynes exploring paradoxes with his music - crooning the most graphic of lyrics within a seemingly ‘innocent’ musical style.
So does it work? You betcha.
From start to finish this album is excellent, there is just so much depth to get your head around and explore. Special mention must go to his US collaborators, the wider Bright Eyes team (Conor Oberst & co), their countrified impact has made this album all the greater.
Essential Tracks
Galaxy of the Lost
Tell Me What It’s Worth
Midnight Surprise
Full Track Listing
1. Number One (0:25)
2. Galaxy of the Lost (3:58)
3. Tell Me What It's Worth (2:40)
4. All to Shit (1:12)
5. Midnight Surprise (9:56)
6. Devil Tricks for a Bitch (4:40)
7. I Could Have Done This Myself (3:18)
8. Salty Water (2:26)
9. Dry Lips (3:46)
10. Everyone I Know Is Listening to Crunk (3:03)
11. Let the Bitches Die (2:38)
12. No Surprise (For Wendela) / Midnight Surprise [Reprise] (5:06)
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