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Album Review

Pocketbooks
Carousel Oddbox Records

Article written by Tom B - Oct 24, 2011

Those darlings of the London indiepop scene Pocketbooks return with an album that manages to impress on many levels. Their début Flight Paths (2009) won many plaudits with its charming mix of 1960s pop, the work of Burt F. Bacharach, Northern Soul and a debt to what is now known as C86. It wasn't without its faults, being naive in parts so I was keen to hear how they had progressed.

One of those faults (well to these ears anyway) were the vocals of vocalist/keyboard player Andy Hudson and on album opener "Fireworks at Midnight" these fears resurface as they sound remarkably fragile, so much so I thought the promo CD would snap in two. It didn't work but as the album progressed his vocals sound as strong as they have ever been. Listening to "The Sky At Night" and album closer "At The End Of The Pier" any fears remaining were soon swept away as they took command over the subtle, gentle backing tracks.

I have always enjoyed the band's music that little bit more when fellow keyboard player Emma Hall takes over on solo vocal duty. I have previously argued that her voice gives the songs that extra oomph complementing the movement and direction in which the songs take.

"Promises Promises", which was given away free as a taster to the album, is one of the best things you are likely to hear this year and if it doesn't get your feet tapping as a bare minimum then I suggest a visit to your GP is due. It's an indiepop dancefloor smash, kids! On the "Sound of The Carnival" her melodic voice soars high amongst the stars and you find yourself flying amongst the clouds with gay abandon. Oh! Is that a bit of Angelo Badalamenti I can hear at the back there too? Other highlights include the luscious "The Beaujolais Lanes" which makes you swoon with joy.

When Hall and Hudson share vocal duties it's pretty effective stuff, none more so than on "Harbour Lights" and "Five Day Forecast", with the latter being a particular delight, weaving in an out of your temporal lobe.

In summary Carousel demonstrated a more mature, bigger and lusher sound. As you listen to stories and tales expertly woven alongside the lovely tuneful accompaniments it becomes an enjoyable 40 minute ride. I am sure I am going to give it a few more spins before the year is out. Promises, Promises eh?

Links:
http://www.pocketbooks.org.uk/
http://oddboxrecords.com/release.php?id=34
http://pocketbooks.bandcamp.com/album/carousel

Promises, Promises by pocketbooks