Released to widespread critical acclaim, 2010’s Hidden was an art-rock masterpiece that further cemented These New Puritans as an impressively versatile and inventive force.
While the London-based trio have undergone considered directional change in the period since, including the departure of keyboardist Sophie Sleigh-Johnson, third album Field Of Reeds again demonstrates the versatility of the group, and the band’s effortless compromise between neo-classical soundscapes and experimental drone.
While lengthy and far removed from debut album Beat Pyramid, Field Of Reeds is a stroke of genius by a band intent on discerning the perfect amalgam of electronic undertones and jazzy blends.
With soundscapes reminiscent of The Haxan Cloak and vocals suggestive of Thom Yorke, the sophisticated compositions of The New Puritans imposingly reveal vivid sonic palettes of unmatched song craft.
Indeed, much like the band’s first two albums, intellectual song craft is prioritised throughout. “V (Island Song)” and “Fragment 2” are perfectly shaped, while the trombone drenched “Nothing Else” reveals the perfection of layered simplicity, and the variety encompassed in a TNP listening experience.
Immense vocal cohesion between frontman Jack Barnett and Fado vocalist Elisa Rodrigues, who appears on five on the total nine tracks, is a further highlight, while sublime execution and emotional elegance underlines the unobtrusively poignant “Spiral” and faultless closing track “Field Of Reeds”.
While the albums melodious complexity and overall orchestration necessitates repeat listens, Field Of Reeds is a beautifully captivating listen, and a remarkable evolution by a band destined for greatness.
