Delays tops debut with unique sound
By Jeff Renfro
"You See Colours," the second album by British band Delays, more than delivers on the promise of their debut. The song writing, both lyrically and musically, are more confident and assured. The Delays have found a sound of their own and manage to explore it in ways that are fresh and creative.
Delays' 2004 debut, "Faded Seaside Glory," was an uneven, unfocused musical experiment that will be remembered for its two outstanding singles and little else. Delays followed it with the life changing single "Long Time Coming," which featured the brilliant lyric, "How could you grow old / You were my triumph?" The band carried over the successful elements of "Faded Seaside Glory," and expanded on them to create a fantastic follow up.
The entirety of "You See Colours" is sung in the same falsetto that has become the trademark of the band. It is remarkable to think that it is a man thinking. What is even stranger, is the falsetto of the backup vocals. They combine to create a sound that is simultaneously gentle and eerie.
"Cavalry," the opener, is an immediate departure from the previous work of the band. The spare instrumentation of the previous record is back by an electronic back beat, creating a dance feel that is completely absent on "Faded Seaside Glory." In many ways, "Cavalry" is the model for all that follows on the album. The rest of the tracks are faster paced and combine uplifting music with melancholy lyrics.
Delays still knows how to write great lyrics, as evidenced on the standout track "Sink Like a Stone." The song features the fantastic lyric "Don't let your heart break / This is your finest hour." The song features a fade in, leading into a wistful harmony. The rhythm section establishes a galloping beat, which remains constant throughout.
"Valentine," the lead single off of the album bridges the gap between Delays' earlier and later works. It is an ideal single to introduce their fans to their new, richer sound.
The album's one shortcoming is the filler songs. Several of the songs are derivative of other songs on "You See Colours." None of the songs is weak, or even boring, but they are just not as unique as the standout tracks. In fact, it is the lack of a notable failure that sheds doubt on the album's quality. Delays obviously has a great sound, but are unwilling to fully explore it. Sometimes they remain content to create great melodies and rely on their ability to lull the listener.
Delays are definitely worth checking out. Watch out for a North American tour coming soon.
Grade: A-
Contact Jeff Renfro at (408) 551-1918 or jrenfro@scu.edu.