Hey guys!
Alright, I really want to use this intro part of today's post to talk about one of my favourite things -
when artists and bands explore new sounds and make them work so brilliantly.
I love it when musicians feel confident and comfortable enough to evolve and create something they haven't done before.
To me, exactly that is art; the process of discovering new versions of yourself and to utilize modern techniques.
We live in time in which a lot of fans are quick to criticize those acts who venture out of their comfort zones.
It's understandable to some extend- sure, if you love a band's sounds, you might want to hear exactly said sound and nothing else, but let's all embrace change.
Today we're thrilled to chat to you about Kodaline's brand new record, so let's do it.
Band: Kodaline
Title: Politics Of Living
Genre: Alternative
Label: B-Unique Records, Sony Music
Release Date: 28th September
Kodaline are a four piece from Dublin, Ireland.
Their sound is ever-evolving, going with the times and discovering new dynamics all the time - but to genrefy it for you, we'd use the word Alternative.
Kodaline are:
Steve Garrigan
Mark Prendergast
Jason Boland
Vinny May
2015 was a whirlwind for the band; they released their fantastic second record "Coming Up For Air", played tons of festivals, performed with Ed Sheeran and continued touring.
They then slowed down the touring side of things and started writing and recording new material.
Soon they released single "Brother" (and made everyone cry with it) and later on in 2017 they dropped their latest EP "I Wouldn't Be".
Since early 2018 the band has been sharing singles off of the the brand-new album "Politics Of Living", which has been released today.
So, let's check out the new record, shall we?
Tracklist:
1) Follow Your Fire
2) Hide and Seek
3) Angel
4) Worth It
5) Shed a Tear
6) Head Held High
7) Born Again
8) I Wouldn't Be
9) Don't Come Around
10) Brother
11) Hell Froze Over
12) Temple Bar
Opener "Follow Your Fire" is indeed a fantastic opener.
It showcases the Kodaline we know in the verses, but allows us to get to know the new elements of the band's sound in the choruses.
And we truly think of the new sound as an addition, rather than a change. They've still got the elements we fell in love with years ago and "Politics Of Living" is the perfect proof for that.
"Worth It" is infectious.
It's probably going to get you to click your fingers and sing along in no time. There's something anthem-like about the track that just soaks you in.
Instead of solely relying on the new electronic sounds, they have used multiple layers and have created a colourful track in the process.
Whether it's the piano, the guitar riffs, the bassline or the guiding drums - the band has seemingly effortlessly combined their strengths with their need to evolve.
If you have seen Kodaline live, one thing you've probably noticed is how in sync the band is; they work in unison and that's a super prominent element of their sound.
Does anyone else remember when we all cried our eyes out to the band's music video for "Brother"?
Yeah, that was an emotional day, wasn't it?
Well, even though we were already familiar with the song, it still wows us.
It's the melody, the rhythm and of course the intensity of their combined harmonies. It's the way they tell stories.
There's one track one the album which made my jaw drop to the floor - it's number 11, "Hell Froze Over".
They almost spit the lyrics in the pre-chorus, right before singer Steve belts out all of his emotions and you can l i t e r a l l y feel the frustration.
Soaring electric guitars help carrying the emotion of the track, while the beats and bass tie it all together. It's tracks like this that really show how versatile Kodaline are - and how damn good they are at writing relatable songs.
To sum it up: When we think of Kodaline, we think of the most creative acoustic sessions, harmonies and songs that transport emotions.
"Politics Of Living" includes all of that- but doesn't stop there. The band has ventured out into the electronic side of music and they've combined those elements with their signature sound in such elegant way.
The album is a brilliant mix of new sounds and old comforts, fantastic arragements, impressive musical talent and an incredible production.
You should listen to these tracks: Worth It, I Wouldn't Be, Brother, Hell Froze Over
Thank you for your visit!
Credits // Words: Vanessa Jetwash | Image: Kodaline