If 2005's Supernature was Saturday night's cocaine binge, then Goldfrapp's latest album is the Sunday morning come down. If only withdrawal could be so pleasant.
Seventh Tree, out Tuesday, is the fourth studio album by British duo Goldfrapp. The record finds Alison Goldfrapp and Will Gregory returning to a more subdued sound reminiscent of their debut, Felt Mountain -- a vast departure from the signature electroglam sound they perfected on Black Cherry and Supernature.
As the debut of the album's lead single drew closer, rumors flew about the band's new sound. The "F" word was on many people's lips -- Goldfrapp was going folk. The news seemed impossible considering this was a band notorious for having dancers that dressed up as wolves and deer. Fans worried their favorite eccentrics were approaching bland territory.
Fortunately, the single and album are anything but conventional. At most, the album's sound could be described as decadent folk; there are no heavy synths or frantic beeps, but rather a smooth, subtle electronic composition bolstered by live instruments, which gives the album a more organic sound.
The opening track, "Clowns," sets the mood for the majority of the melancholy disc. Alison's voice glides over an atmospheric production laced with acoustic guitar. "Little Bird" follows suit, yet erupts into an eclectic jam session that brings the song to life.
It isn't until "Happiness" that Goldfrapp's spirits lift. One of only two uptempo tracks on the album, the marching band-esque beat and tambourines make the song sound like a trip to the circus.
However, the real happiness comes with "Caravan Girl," an ode to packing it all up and running away.
It may be the jolliest song Goldfrapp has ever recorded.While tracks like the piano ballad "Some People" and lead single "A&E" (short for accident and emergency) are undeniably gorgeous, Seventh Tree will never be considered for next weekend's dance party.
Although Seventh Tree doesn't boast any rousing pleas for some ooh la la, Goldfrapp still sounds just as sexy.
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