Words cannot describe how in love I am with the new Florence and the Machine album, Ceremonials. I listened to the first single, What the Water Gave Me, months ago on the way to Biology camp. It was an icy, early morning that only promised more work as the day went on; but my Florence, Piano Man and Boss infused playlist got me through. Stay with me, there is a point here. Ever since hearing that first single, I awaited the arrival of the full album and I am happy to say it did not disappoint.
The album opens with the gorgeous Only If For a Night, which has become a favourite. I am always a fan of Florence's layered voice on studio versions of songs, but I also love the strong drum beats heard in this song; similar to Drumming Song, or I'm Not Calling You a Liar. Shake it Out is another great song from this album that sounds amazing with more great drums and an upbeat sound. Breaking Down kind of makes me imagine looking out a frosty cafe window in Queen Street, looking at the rain. Florence truly has an amazing voice and her singing adds beautiful depth to this song. If I'm not mistaken, I hear some strings that make this song the perfect mix of indie and folk.
I'm loving the creepy, Halloween-sounding Seven Devils that has this gorgeous, dark sound to it. There is harmonious vocal layering in the chorus and a bass drum mixed with some windy, creepy sounds à la Bewtween Two Lungs. It's genius. All This and Heaven Too belongs in an indie love film like (500) Days of Summer, and it sounds a bit like a hybrid of Cosmic Love and Between Two Lungs. The album Between Two Lungs brought us the live at Hammersmith rendition of the quirky, chemistry infused song Strangeness and Charm, that I immediately fell in love with. The studio version is here! I love it just as much, and actually understand the lyrics more. It is as described, strange and charming; and has that distinctive drum beat that I love in Florence songs. What the Water Gave Me also makes an appearance, but it appears to be a slightly different version than the single release but I still love it. I hope you too are enjoying the much needed new Florence goodies. Enjoy and comment if you've got a favorite yet!
Dannielle
